Rocket Licensing brings European Space Agency and DK together for publishing slate

Rocket Licensing has secured a partnership between its client the European Space Agency and publisher DK for a line of ESA books for children and young people.

The initial launches will include The Astronaut Diaries: Journals of Andi Futura Aged 11 1/2 and a choose-your-own-adventure-style book called Mission to Mars.

The Astronaut Diaries gives readers a glimpse into the everyday goings-on that are part of life on a space station and is partly inspired by the real-life experience of Italian ESA astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti.

The books are scheduled for publication in autumn 2024 and spring 2025. Further titles are planned for 2025/2026.

“We are delighted to work with DK for this project,” said Emmet Fletcher, Head of ESA’s Branding and Partnerships Office.

“We are always happy to collaborate with partners, such as DK, who share our goals. In this case it is our ongoing mission to inspire young people to explore space and space science.”

Katy Flint, Senior Acquisitions Editor at DK, added: “It’s not often a series of children’s books comes along that combines a delightful and entertaining narrative with a scientifically accurate and detailed look at the ups and downs of living and travelling in space. These two books do just that! Working with ESA, Emma Roberts, and Dr Sheila Kanani on these highly original and beautifully researched and written books has been a real privilege.”

Charlie Donaldson, Joint Managing Director of Rocket Licensing, said: “This exciting new partnership with DK highlights ESA’s huge appeal and shows the depth of exclusive content and expertise that ESA can bring to bear to create successful licensed ranges.”