In this fascinating study of the Earth's atmosphere and the skies beyond it, the author of the highly popular Alvin Fernald books turns from fiction to explore the exciting aspects of the "world above" that will be useful to the spacemen of tomorrow.

From the micro-climate at our feet, to the Moon, the Sun, and the mysteries that await us even farther beyond, Mr. Hicks' clear and lively account explains the characteristics of our atmosphere: the basic facts of the evaporation-condensation cycle; its composition and behavior; and how these elements affect our weather and climate.  In an absorbing chapter covering the origin and causes of storms, a hurricane and tornado are traced from their beginnings through the full measure of their violence.  The author also discusses the ways in which man uses the atmosphere to his advantage and to his disadvantage. 

Anecdotes and examples make this a book that even those who do not ordinarily enjoy scientific reading will find completely absorbing.

From the dust jacket