Essays on ways to understand the Universe. In a fascinating, intelligible form with extensive use of historical material, it talks about the achievements of modern astronomy and cosmonautics, methods of astronomical research, and the close connections of astronomy with mechanics, mathematics, physics, and Earth sciences. Much attention is paid to scientific data obtained thanks to the progress of rocket and space technology. The history of astronomy can be traced in connection with the general development of scientific creativity in various historical eras. The book is richly illustrated using ancient documents, paintings, postage stamps. First and second editions - Prosveshcheniye Publishing House, 1973, 1984. For high school students, students, teachers, astronomy lovers.