Elevators that reach into orbit, inflatable space hotels, and ecotourism among the stars may sound like elements of science fiction, but they are actually innovations being developed by space-exploration programs and private companies around the world.

In Space Tourism, the second book in the Machines of the Future series, science writer and Discovery Channel senior online producer Peter McMahon introduces the idea of space travel, not under the auspices of NASA or other government programs, but as a business venture available to anyone who can afford it.

McMahon begins with a brief history of space travel, then quickly moves on to explore the current state of space tourism. A multi-million dollar stay in cramped quarters on the International Space Station requires months of rigorous training to prepare for life in a zero-gravity environment. Not exactly a typical holiday, but competition between private companies and significant advances in technology suggest that more traditional, relaxing vacations in space aren’t too far off.

Aimed at a pre-teen audience, the book’s short chapters are accompanied by illustrations and sidebars. By interspersing information on the history, evolution, and future of space tourism with brief but comprehensive sections on the science involved, McMahon creates a smooth and balanced book that will captivate young readers and spur more in-depth investigation.

The addition of experiments that readers can perform at home, as well as interviews with astronauts, space tourists, and a variety of experts, keep the interest level high. While there is a lot of information to digest, it is presented in short, accessible sections, making it an easy, and inspiring, read.