Communicating space exploration : challenges state of the art and future trends This book offers an enlightening analysis of the ways in which the communication of space explorations has evolved in response to political and social developments and the availability of new media and communication tools. Important challenges to effective communication are discussed including the diversity of audiences the risks associated with space missions and continuing skepticism about the benefits of space research despite the many associated day to day applications. In addition future trends in communication are examined with reference to likely trends in space exploration over the coming century. Besides space communication for the public the need for targeted messaging to each group of stakeholders  decision makers media opinion leaders the scientific community and industry  is analyzed in detail. A series of case studies of particular space missions both successful and unsuccessful is presented to illustrate key issues. The book has significant implications for the communication of science in general and will be of interest to a wide audience including space scientists science communication professionals people fascinated by exploration and discovery stakeholders and educators