Ages 9 to 12 years. This kid-friendly handbook investigates the solar system's inner workings, the tools used to gain information, and an array of astronomical phenomena. Through a time line of discoveries and important events, a comprehensive text, and numerous projects readers can build from household items, this resource provides up-to-date information about the realm beyond planet Earth. Starting with a discussion of the basic components -- the sun, the planets, their moons and rings, meteors, asteroids, and comets -- this handbook considers topics ranging from the demotion of Pluto to a space object to the greenhouse effect on Venus and the astronomical unit. Along with this exploration of the historical, contemporary, and future tools -- such as the rockets and satellites used to gather data -- and galaxies, nebulae, and pulsars found outside of the solar system, are instructions for creating a rubber-band powered Mars rover, using dry ice to simulate the tail of a comet, and models of various phenomena. A resources section provides references for additional information and projects about astronomy and the solar system.