Astronomy, space and time Books

Book SynopsisA guide to the 99% of the Universe our eyes can’t see from a dazzling new voice in popular scienceTrade Review‘Engaging…this book will be of interest to anyone wanting to know more about how we’ve learned what we know about the Universe.’ -- Chris North, BBC Sky at Night‘Matthew Bothwell’s excellent book is a compelling read. He sets the latest fascinating discoveries in their historical context, and highlights the mysteries that challenge future astronomers. The coverage is comprehensive and clear. The book stands out in a crowded field and deserves very wide readership.’ -- Martin Rees, Astronomer Royal‘Matthew Bothwell has opened a new window onto the night sky for his readers… A unique and compelling read that will open your eyes to the beautiful and multifaceted universe that scientists are exploring today.’ -- Emily Levesque, author of The Last Stargazers‘Matt’s book is an excellent introduction to how astronomers have learnt "what’s out there", particularly using radiation invisible to the human eye. He deftly conveys ideas with a cheerful and infectious enthusiasm, using humour, vivid analogies and personal anecdotes to bring our understanding of the Universe to life, without losing any scientific rigour. Highly readable, it offers an increased sense of wonder at the workings of the cosmos.’ -- Carolin Crawford, Emeritus Gresham Professor of Astronomy‘The Invisible Universe shows everything in a new light. In clear language this book takes you from the familiar to the deeply strange, from blue skies to black holes and beyond, showing how much we’ve learned and the immensity of what we have yet to understand.’ -- Ken MacLeod, author of the award-winning Fall Revolution series‘Matt Bothwell guides us through the world of astronomy and astrophysics with an engagingly written, up-to-date view of some of the key current frontiers. He opens our eyes to wavelengths beyond the light we can see. His journey includes galaxies, black holes, star formation, dust, gravitational waves, dark matter and dark energy – all with interesting historical context, accessible explanations and richly peppered with accurate analogies. A compelling read.’ -- Andrew Coates, Professor of Physics at UCL and Deputy Director (Solar System) at UCL’s Mullard Space Science Laboratory‘This book bursts with information without once becoming dull or over-complicated. Ideas are introduced at an accessible level, and unique analogies put abstract concepts and almost inconceivable quantities into a context that we can understand intuitively… Some of the core scientific content of this book may have been covered in other popular astronomy books, but rarely in such an engaging, warm, and readable way. Readers of all ages who want to gain a better understanding of the unseen Universe will find something here to enjoy.’ -- Astronomy Now‘Intriguing… In Dr Bothwell’s fascinating new book, we are taken on a cosmic journey… beautifully presented in a way that makes for compelling reading and opens up your mind to the unseen. A book that fully deserves to be on any curiously minded person’s book shelf.’ * Astronomy Ireland *‘A fascinating account that particularly stands out in the crowded field of scientific literature… Explaining difficult concepts in a digestible way, The Invisible Universe is a must-read for those seeking a straightforward route into the world of astronomy. One can’t help being attracted to Bothwell’s infectious passion for science, prompting us to stare out at the night sky and wonder what other discoveries lie hidden amongst the stars.’ -- Reaction‘A highly recommended and enjoyable read, especially if this is your first guidebook for this armchair trip… Dr. Bothwell examines each topic with the right mix of history, anecdote, analogy, science and implications… captivating.’ -- Starvind‘Matthew Bothwell has opened a new window onto the night sky for his readers, taking us on a sweeping tour of some of the most cutting-edge phenomena in the cosmos and using his knack for clear, precise, and inventive explanations to help us all see the unseen. A unique and compelling read that will open your eyes to the beautiful and multifaceted universe that scientists are exploring today.’ -- Emily Levesque, author of The Last Stargazers‘Excellent… a great read… Matthew Bothwell has a sense of wonder and joy about the concepts and ideas he is explaining. His enthusiasm and marvel are contagious… definitely the best book we have read and reviewed in 2022.’ -- Simon Cocking, Irish Tech News‘This is a beautifully articulated and informative book all about the wonders of our universe and the history behind it all. I was drawn to this book because the concept of space and all that’s in it interested me, and reading this has made me even more fascinated. It is truly a page-turner and was really hard to put down once I started reading.’ -- SMS Non-fiction Book Reviews

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Book SynopsisON THE SHOULDERS OF GIANTS tells a compelling story, using original papers from Einstein, Copernicus, Galilei, Kepler and Newton. Theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking explains how these works changed the course of science, ushering astronomy and physics out of the Middle Ages and into the modern world.Table of ContentsNicolaus Copernicus (1473-1543): his life and work; "On the Revolution of Heavenly Spheres. Galileo Galilei (1564-1642) - his life and work; "Dialogues Concerning Two Sciences". Johannes Kepler (1571-1630): his life and work; "Harmony of the World" book five. Sir Isaac Newton (1643-1727): his life and work; "Principia". Albert Einstein (1879-1955): his life and work; selections from "The Principle of Relativity".

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Book SynopsisProving to be both varied and fascinating, moons are far more common than planets in our Solar System. Our own Moon has had a profound influence on Earth, not only through tidal effects, but even on the behaviour of some marine animals. Many remarkable things have been discovered about the moons of the giant outer planets from Voyager, Galileo, Cassini, and other spacecraft. Scientists have glimpsed volcanic activity on Io, found oceans of water on Titan, and captured photos of icy geysers bursting from Enceladus. It looks likely that microbial life beyond the Earth may be discovered on a moon rather than a planet.In this Very Short Introduction David Rothery introduces the reader to the moons of our Solar System, beginning with the early discoveries of Galileo and others, describing their variety of mostly mythological names, and the early use of Jupiter''s moons to establish position at sea and to estimate the speed of light. Rothery discusses the structure, formation, and influence Trade Reviewan excellent introduction to Moons in a genuinely pocket-sized book that won't break the bank. * Astronomy Now *delightful * Lewis Dartnell, BBC Sky at Night *A highly readable and informative book. * Network Reviews *This small, densely packed paperback is a fantastic starting point for those interested in learning more about the 190 or so moons found within our solar system. Not merely a book of tables and facts about these celestial bodies, Moons covers the rich history of exploration and discovery along with the ideas that were shaped and moulded by astronomers across the ages. * Geoscientist *Table of Contents1. The discovery and significance of moons ; 2. The Moon ; 3. The Moon's influence on us ; 4. The moons of giant planets ; 5. Giant planet regular satellites in close up ; 6. The moons of Mars - captured asteroids ; 7. Moons of small bodies ; 8. Moons in other planetary systems: exomoons ; Further Reading ; Index

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Book SynopsisFrom teaching you how to spot the major and minor constellations, to revealing the fascinating starlore from around the world, this stunningly illustrated hardback will bring star-gazing vividly to life.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Winner of the Chambliss Astronomical Writing Award, American Astronomical Society"

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Book SynopsisWe live in a world of waves. The Earth shakes to its foundations, the seas and oceans tremble incessantly, sounds reverberate through land, sea, and air. Beneath the skin, our brains and bodies are awash with waves of their own, and the Universe is filled by a vast spectrum of electromagnetic radiation, of which visible light is the narrowest sliver. Casting the net even wider, there are mechanical waves, quantum wave phenomena, and the now clearly detected gravitational waves. Look closer and deeper and more kinds of waves appear, down to the most fundamental level of reality. This Very Short Introduction looks at all the main kinds of wave, their sources, effects, and uses. Mike Goldsmith discusses how wave motion results in a range of phenomena, from reflection, diffraction, interference, and polarization in the case of light waves to beats and echoes for sound. All waves, however different, share many of the same features, and, as Goldsmith shows, for all their complexities many of their behaviours are fundamentally simple.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Table of Contents1: Waves in essence2: Water waves3: Sound waves4: Seismic waves5: Biological waves6: Electromagnetic waves7: Gravitational waves8: Quantum wavesFurther readingIndex

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"James Peebles, Co-Winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics""Finalist for the PROSE Award in Cosmology and Astronomy, Association of American Publishers""It's hard to imagine anyone better placed to recount the inside story of modern cosmology. . . . For anyone seriously interested in the ways of science and how we came to understand our place in the Universe, this is essential reading."---Giles Sparrow, BBC Sky at Night Magazine"As expected, the quality is top-notch. . . . [Cosmology's Century] is also very well written. The book is essential reading for anyone interested in the first hundred years of modern cosmology."---Phillip Helbig, The Observatory

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Book SynopsisSacred Geometry exists all around us in the natural world, from the unfurling of a rose bud to the pattern of a tortoise shell, the sub-atomic to the galactic. A pure expression of number and form, it is the language of creation and navigates the unseen dimensions beyond our three-dimensional reality.Since its discovery, humans have found many ways - stone circles, mandalas, labyrinths, temples- to call upon this universal law as a way of raising consciousness and communicating with a divine source. By becoming aware of the dots and lines that build the world around you, Sacred Geometry will teach you how to bring this mystical knowledge into your daily practice.

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Book SynopsisA revealing look at the parallel mythologies behind the colonization of Earth and spaceand a bold vision for a more equitable, responsible future both on and beyond our planet. As environmental, political, and public health crises multiply on Earth, we are also at the dawn of a new space race in which governments team up with celebrity billionaires to exploit the cosmos for human gain. The best-known of these pioneers are selling different visions of the future: while Elon Musk and SpaceX seek to establish a human presence on Mars, Jeff Bezos and Blue Origin work toward moving millions of earthlings into rotating near-Earth habitats. Despite these distinctions, these two billionaires share a core utopian project: the salvation of humanity through the exploitation of space. In Astrotopia, philosopher of science and religion Mary-Jane Rubenstein pulls back the curtain on the not-so-new myths these space barons are peddling, like growth without limit, energy without guilt, and salTrade Review"A gung-ho approach to speed would violate the considerations of space ecology promoted by Rubenstein in Astrotopia: The Dangerous Religion of the Corporate Space Race. Rubenstein, while expertly dismantling some overblown claims of companies such as SpaceX and Blue Origin, proposes a gentler mode of space exploration that refuses to rehearse the violent history of colonialism on earth. In a way her vision recalls Capt. Kirk and Mr. Spock’s Prime Directive: to avoid interference with other life forms. The original Star Trek series began in 1966, only months after the death of Sergei Korolev. Perhaps it still has something to teach us." -- Steven Poole * Wall Street Journal *"The vision is to mine the lunar surface for rocket fuel that can then propel us all the way to Mars—and beyond, as humanity takes its self-appointed place in the stars. Rubenstein told me that vision makes her want to throw up. . . . Rubenstein argues that today’s corporate space race—helmed by Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Richard Branson, and others who propose to 'save' humanity from a dying planet—is actually rehashing old Christian themes that go all the way back to the fifteenth century, when European Christians colonized the Americas. Remember how Donald Trump described the Artemis mission and eventual settlement of the moon and Mars? He called it 'America’s manifest destiny in the stars.' But as Rubenstein points out, not everyone thinks it’s the moon’s destiny to be strip-mined, or Mars’s destiny to be settled by human colonists. In fact, some believe these celestial bodies should have fundamental rights of their own." -- Sigal Samuel * Vox *"That techno-utopian agenda, which too frequently anchors public discussion of extraterrestrial exploration, was critiqued last year in Astrotopia: The Dangerous Religion of the Corporate Space Race, by Mary-Jane Rubenstein, professor of religion and science at Wesleyan University in Connecticut. She notes the quasi-religious fervor of ‘astrosavior’ Musk and his devotees: the planet is doomed, cries its richest man, who promises salvation elsewhere for the faithful. His is not the only voice that matters. What about the Navajo Nation, who regard other worlds as sacred? We should not be sacrificing a space Greta to social media trolls to argue the toss; we need governments brave enough to make new rules in space that respect and benefit us all.” * Financial Times *"Rubenstein succeeds in highlighting both the debate over whether future space exploration and exploitation should be led by government or entrepreneurial entities and the manner in which neoliberal, private-sector emphases have come to dominate the thinking of a particular segment of the pro-space community. Her criticisms of this phenomenon—part of a growing body of literature in environmental studies, Afrofuturism, and anticolonialism investigations—are on point.” -- Roger D. Launius * Science *“In the cold war, space exploration’s wonders served a race between political systems. Today, argues religion and science scholar Rubenstein, they are subject to commercial rivalry, notably between billionaires Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk, who are littering space and advocating it as a refuge from Earth’s destruction. She argues that we must eschew such myopic, colonialist ‘astrotopia,’ and listen instead to a sort of ‘pantheistic mysticism’—valuing and learning from the cosmic environment—scorned by past imperialists.” -- Andrew Robinson * Nature *"If you find this state of affairs depressing—if your fascination with the Moon, Mars and other wonders of our solar system is increasingly tempered by concerns that a small but powerful group of people seems hell-bent on mucking them up—then you should run, not walk, to your nearest bookseller for a copy of Astrotopia. . . . It offers a concise but stinging critique of the current 'New Space' era, giving succour to space fans everywhere who are, in Rubenstein’s words, 'sick over the decimation of this planet and horrified that this planet isn’t enough for the decimators.' . . . When I review a book, I like to mark important passages and pithy phrases with sticky notes. By the time I finished Astrotopia, my copy had more paper flags than a Jubilee street party. I hope this review illustrates why this was so, and why Rubenstein’s arguments deserve the widest possible hearing among people who dream of exploring space without exploiting it." -- Margaret Harris * Physics World *“A version of spaceflight's story that isn't told often enough.” -- Meghan Bartels, News Reporter * Scientific American, "55 Books Scientific American Recommends in 2023" *"Rubenstein is not only brilliant at putting together and analyzing ideas; she’s also a lively (and quite accessible) writer." * Christian Century *"Rubenstein is not against utopianism, but she argues that Silicon Valley techno-utopianism is fraudulent, using the rhetoric of science and reason to disguise the fact that its promises are actually unscientific and unrealistic. Instead, she advocates that we get our ideas for a beautiful human future from a diverse array of other sources, from feminist science fiction to indigenous thinkers. Rubenstein offers us a starting point for thinking about how we might forge a path for our species that is egalitarian and humane." * Current Affairs *"Rubenstein takes apart the mindset that wants to establish outposts on the moon, mine water and metals, and colonise Mars. . . . Should we study and explore space? Yes, but not if science means heedless exploitation, argues the book. Ethical exploration would avoid damage and violence and prioritise knowledge over profit. It would keep earth’s own needs first, like using technology to better track weather and disaster, or deploying billionaire surpluses on this planet before remaking others. Otherwise, what we do to the earth, we will do outside earth." * Times of India *"I’m not a pantheist but the argument does carry some weight: our rationalistic relationship with the modern world has denied us of any real, meaningful connection with Mother Nature. We’re instead too focused on our divine destiny in the stars. But if we ruin the Moon or Mars or any other planet, then what is really the point of it all in the first place? . . . In the conclusion of Astrotopia, Rubenstein asserts the need for a pantheist revolution against the Western view of God as a single entity. Instead we should embrace God as being within everything. It’s a fundamental rewriting of our position in the cosmos, and a repositioning of the cosmos around us. A more spiritual approach to spacefaring might just allow us to avoid our earthly mistakes, and explore space ethically. And if we learn any lessons from our time here on Earth, it should not be ‘how space belongs to us, but how we belong to it.’ As Carl Sagan said, we are, each of us, made of star-stuff." -- James Tatam * Nature Astronomy *"Astrotopia makes a powerful argument that we are approaching space exploration with the same old imperial Christian mythology, making space merely a thing to be exploited." -- Hilary Lamb * Engineering and Technology *"Rubenstein's work is always delightfully readable and engagingly enlightening, but Astrotopia feels more immediate, because the message is both timely and urgent. A book of cultural criticism as well as consciousness raising, Astrotopia is meant to reach beyond the philosophers of religion and space historians to the interested layperson who needs to know how the world’s wealthiest people are 'rehashing' themes of Christian conquest to justify their manifest destiny in space. . . . Astrotopia is downright fun when it’s centered on the two focus-pulling, spotlight-stealing, grand-gesturing, dueling ringmasters themselves—Musk and Bezos—mostly because Rubenstein’s tone as she recounts the litanies of their outsized ideas is that of an exasperated Greek chorus." -- Catherine L. Newell * The Revealer *"Few books of late have given me such pause as Rubenstein’s thoughtful Astrotopia. Like many, I had considered space travel an untrammeled good (despite its origins in the destructive political rivalries of the Cold War and recent reliance on individual, stupidly-rich capitalists to move its development forward). Like many, I would love a Star Trek universe where humans peaceably coexist and thrive on hundreds of new worlds, the sins of the past behind us as we progress together in the noble spirit of exploration ever onward into bright futures. But what Rubenstein makes so clear is that today that kind of future utopia seems wholly unlikely. Without a severe imaginative reset, we may be doomed to repeat our imperialist and colonialist sins of the past, this time with the planet at stake." -- Jeremy Brett * Ancillary Review of Books *"Astrotopia presents an examination of the current state of space exploration juxtaposed with the history of previous periods of exploration—and exploitation—here on Earth. Rubenstein . . . brings a particularly interesting perspective to the subject in examining not only the histories themselves but the motivations concurrent with them. . . . What’s more, she caps her examination with the presentation of an alternative of how the future of space exploration might unfold if undertaken with appropriate reflection upon the past, and a reexamination of the motivations and methods for its continuance." -- Johannes E. Riutta * Well-read Naturalist *"A new book, Astrotopia, lays out in the most fascinating terms the ways in which things are very much going wrong up there beyond the wild blue yonder. . . . In the end, it’s not the Tesla in orbit that bothers. It’s this: 'When asked why he wants to "save" humanity by sending us to Mars rather than addressing injustice, poverty and climate change on Earth, Musk will often laugh and say, "F— Earth." Earth is done; Earth is history; Earth is so last eon.' . . . Sure, we can and should go joy-riding in our planetary neighborhood. But we still have a chance to save the most hospitable planet we know, Rubenstein writes. Let’s give it the old college try before saying F-it.” -- Larry Wilson * Orange County Register *"Why are American taxpayers giving billions in contracts to Elon Musk to send astronauts back to the Moon, and dangling a second contract for a lunar lander to Jeff Bezos, two of the world’s richest tech billionaires? For the answer to these questions, I strongly suggest you read Astrotopia: The Dangerous Religion of the Corporate Space Race. . . . In highly entertaining prose, Rubenstein unpacks the absurdity of Musk and Bezos’s space ambitions while exploring the larger issue of how our national priorities for space continue to be guided by destructive myths instead of sustainable, peaceful ones." -- Micah L. Sifry * The Connector *"Astrotopia is superb and will fascinate anyone curious about the current space fervor." * Booklist *"Rubenstein lends fresh energy to a familiar debate about the value of space programs, dreams of mining the solar system, and colonizing the moon and Mars." * Kirkus Reviews *"A singular perspective on space technology, with unexpected comparisons to colonialism that will make readers think twice about the future of humanity on other planets." -- Jennifer Moore * Library Journal *"In Astrotopia, the philosopher Rubenstein argues that the twenty-first-century private space race being carried out by Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Richard Branson, and others has become a ‘mythological project’ analogous to the type of ‘imperial Christianity’ that was used by Europeans to colonize more than half the planet. Discussing the era of private competition in space, known as NewSpace, she argues that we need to act now to prevent it from being rapaciously exploited by capitalists. Yet perhaps the most provocative portion of the book looks toward the past: Rubenstein convincingly demonstrates that NASA and US politicians used Christian imperialist language to justify the Apollo missions. In other words, it’s no coincidence that the Apollo 8 crew read from the book of Genesis while orbiting the Moon on Christmas Eve 1968." * Physics Today *"In her book Astrotopia: The Dangerous Religion of the Corporate Space Race, religion professor Mary-Jane Rubenstein describes the pull of the cosmos as 'mythic.' And she’s right: there is something truly spiritual about our cosmos—it has a God-like ability to make you feel small. As Rubenstein beautifully writes, 'Innumerable suns warming scadzillions of planets, with oceans and dust storms and cloud microbes and who knows what else, all in constant motion through infinite space and time, and here you are, making a cheese sandwich, nowhere in particular.'" * New Voices *"This book critically analyzes the motivations of commercial space entities from the perspective of a professor of religion, science, and technology. The early commercial space flight endeavors described in the book are appropriately compared to the exploits of early colonialists who ventured into ‘unexplored’ lands in pursuit of resources and settlement opportunities. Rubenstein also provides convincing examples of how many of the ongoing commercial space activities are not fully evaluated for various ethical issues related to space operations, including the issues raised by the prospects of, e.g., space tourism, outer space settlement, and exploitation of planetary resources. The author unapologetically describes how the commercial space flight missions currently sensationalized in the news are reminiscent of the avaricious and contentious European colonization of territories outside continental Europe. She points out, moreover, that the benefits of these high-profile space flight activities are not inclusive to all and that policy makers have not fully considered the ownership of outer space territories and natural resources extracted from other planets. Ample references support the chapters. Highly recommended." * Choice *“A timely book that makes an important and well-argued point: that the new space race, indeed much like the old one, is driven largely by a combination of an instinct for capitalist exploitation and colonization coupled to a quasi-religious impulse drawing on some of the worst of the Judeo-Christian tradition. Astrotopia ought to stimulate some much-needed debate.” -- Philip Ball, author of "The Modern Myths: Adventures in the Machinery of the Popular Imagination"“One of the most philosophically sophisticated, mythically impactful, contemporarily relevant, and wickedly funny books I have read in a very long time. ‘Influential’ is a grotesque understatement. ‘Game-changing’ is more like it.” -- Jeffrey J. Kripal, author of "The Flip: Epiphanies of Mind and the Future of Knowledge"“The NewSpace era is marked by growing excitement and worry. The most significant issue moving forward is how to prevent destructive practices from crystallizing as the space endeavor grows. The first thing to do is to dispel the myth from the reality, and this book is one attempt to do that. For this field to advance, we need more critical perspectives that are forward-looking and suggest a pathway toward alternative hopeful and inclusive space futures.” -- Timiebi Aganaba, School for the Future of Innovation in Society, College of Global Futures, Arizona State University“This book is a must-read for anyone who believes that the space race is a romantic enterprise defining humanity’s destiny. Alas, as Rubenstein argues with wit and urgency, the space race is a reinvention of the worst colonialism has to offer, a mythologized narrative of exploitation and hubris poised to turn outer space into ‘another theater of greed and war.’” -- Marcelo Gleiser, Appleton Professor of Natural Philosophy, Dartmouth College, 2019 Templeton Prize Laureate“Astrotopia is an adventurous ride into outer space. Rubenstein masterfully places our desire to travel the cosmic seas within a historical and religious context, which is illuminating. Sublimely entertaining, Rubenstein brings levity to such a complex subject matter. To understand the future of the space industry, Astrotopia is a must-read.” -- Ingrid LaFleur, founder and director, The Afrofuture Strategies Institute“Astrotopia is a timely and lively read that helps us see the old myths behind NewSpace. Rubenstein exposes the religious and imperialistic roots of our outer-space plans, challenging us to rethink our motivations and justifications for our dreams of leaving Earth. Anyone who has ever asked why we are so intent on going to Mars and elsewhere, and especially those of us who consider ourselves space enthusiasts, should read this and ask whether we’re really satisfied with the futures being drawn up for us by astro-oligarchs or whether there may be other, and better, options.” -- David Grinspoon, coauthor of "Chasing New Horizons: Inside the Epic First Mission to Pluto"Table of ContentsPreface Introduction: We Hold This Myth to Be Potential 1 Our Infinite Future in Infinite Space 2 Creation and Conquest 3 The American Promised Land 4 The Final Frontier 5 Whose Space Is It? 6 The Rights of Rocks 7 Other Spacetimes Conclusion: Revolt of the Pantheists Acknowledgments Notes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisThe next decade of planetary science and astrobiology holds tremendous promise. New research will expand our understanding of our solar system's origins, how planets form and evolve, under what conditions life can survive, and where to find potentially habitable environments in our solar system and beyond. Origins, Worlds, and Life: A Decadal Strategy for Planetary Science and Astrobiology 2023-2032 highlights key science questions, identifies priority missions, and presents a comprehensive research strategy that includes both planetary defense and human exploration. This report also recommends ways to support the profession as well as the technologies and infrastructure needed to carry out the science. Table of ContentsFront MatterSummary1 Introduction to Planetary Science, Astrobiology, and Planetary Defense2 Tour of the Solar System: A Transformative Decade of Exploration3 Priority Science Questions4 Question 1: Evolution of the Protoplanetary Disk5 Question 2: Accretion in the Ou

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Book SynopsisRichard Dawkins has written a string of bestselling books, including the phenomenal The God Delusion. He is a fellow of the Royal Society and the Royal Society of Literature, and has won numerous awards. He was a professor at Oxford University until 2008 and he remains a fellow of New College.Trade ReviewDawkins has a gift for making science enjoyable ... [He is] one of the greatest scientific writers/explainers of all time. * Bill Gates *From the first sentence it reads with the force and fluency of a classic ... a luminous, authoritative prose that transcends age differences * The Times *Stunning in appearance ... the book is a triumph * New Scientist *The text is persuasive whatever one's age ... the chapter on rainbows has the clearest explanation of how they appear that I've ever seen * Financial Times *I wanted to write this book but I wasn't clever enough. Now I've read it, I am -- Ricky Gervais

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Book SynopsisThis essential guide for every amateur astronomer explores the entire universe in one practical, easy-to-use, beginner-friendly handbook.​The Astronomy Handbook, by award-winning astronomy writer Govert Schilling, is the indispensable, go-to guide to everything you ever wanted or need to know about space, including: the stars and the constellations planets comets eclipses galaxies black holes exoplanets and much more It also offers an excellent education for every amateur astronomer, including detailed and practical information on how to: locate and track the movements of the constellations throughout the year view the planets and the cosmos select the best equipment to use, including telescopes and cameras photograph objects in space Schilling provides a fascinating history of astronomy, as well as clear and accessible explanations of binary, variable, and neutron stars; black holes and gamma-ray bursts; the formation and structure of galaxies; dark matter; and extraterrestrial life.The Astronomy Handbook is a primordial soup-to-nuts guide to the cosmos and an essential reference for every student of the universe. 

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Book SynopsisA former NASA scientist makes the cosmic common knowledgeTo study astronomy is to consider the most wondrous phenomena on the grandest of scales - the universe and all it contains. Beginning with our earliest explorations of the night sky, William Waller takes us on an enthralling journey through the Milky Way and far, far beyond. He combines science and history to show how our understanding of everything from black holes to the structure of the universe has evolved over time, illuminating past discoveries and offering contemporary insights into the cosmic histories of stars, planets and galaxies. Whether object of study or curiosity, the universe - and all it contains - is tantalisingly introduced here.Trade Review‘The most informative and approachable introduction to astronomy of recent years. Bill Waller is a congenial guide on this grand tour to the farthest reaches of the universe.’ -- Alan Hirshfeld, author of Starlight Detectives: How Astronomers, Inventors, and Eccentrics Discovered the Modern Universe‘A fun, engaging and entertaining introduction to the wonderful phenomena in space. Covering broad topics spanning the birth, life and death of the universe, this book is a fantastic way to quench your astronomical thirst.’ -- Dr Sheila Kanani MBE, Education, Outreach and Diversity Officer, Royal Astronomical Society, and Honorary Researcher, Lancaster University

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsAcknowledgments xvii About the Companion Website xix 1 Astrobiology 1 1.1 Introductory Remarks 1 1.2 The Major Questions of Astrobiology and the Content of the Textbook 3 1.3 Some Other Features of the Textbook 9 1.4 A Brief History of Astrobiology 10 1.5 Conclusions 15 Bibliography 15 2 What is Life? 17 2.1 The Concept of “Life” 17 2.2 What is Life? The Historical Perspective 17 2.3 Spontaneous Generation 19 2.4 More Modern Concepts 23 2.5 Schrödinger and Life 27 2.6 Life as a Dissipative Process 27 2.7 Life: Just a Human Definition? 28 2.8 Does It Matter Anyway? 30 2.9 Conclusions 30 Questions for Review and Reflection 30 Bibliography 31 3 Matter and Life 33 3.1 Matter and Life 33 3.2 Life is Made of “Ordinary” Matter 34 3.3 The Atomic Nucleus 34 3.4 Electrons, Atoms, and Ions 35 3.5 Types of Bonding in Matter 37 3.6 Ionic Bonding 38 3.7 Covalent Bonding 39 3.7.1 Covalent Bonds and Life 40 3.8 Metallic Bonding 41 3.9 Van der Waals Interactions 42 3.10 Hydrogen Bonding 44 3.11 An Astrobiological Perspective 46 3.12 The Equation of State Describes the Relationship Between Different Types of Matter 47 3.13 Other States of Matter 50 3.14 The Interaction Between Matter and Light 53 3.15 Conclusions 57 Questions for Review and Reflection 57 Bibliography 57 4 The Molecular Structure of Life 59 4.1 Building Life 59 4.2 The Essential Elements: CHNOPS 59 4.3 Carbon is Versatile 62 4.4 The Chains of Life 62 4.5 Proteins 63 4.6 Chirality 66 4.7 Carbohydrates (Sugars) 68 4.8 Lipids 71 4.9 The Nucleic Acids 72 4.10 The Solvent of Life 76 4.11 Alternative Chemistries 78 4.13 Conclusions 84 Questions for Review and Reflection 85 Bibliography 85 5 The Cellular Structure of Life 87 5.1 From Molecules to Cells 87 5.2 Types of Cells 88 5.3 Shapes of Cells 90 5.4 The Structure of Cells 90 5.5 The Structure of Cellular Membranes 91 5.6 The Information Storage System of Life 96 5.7 Eukaryotic Cells 105 5.8 The Reproduction of Cells 107 5.9 Why Did Sexual Reproduction Evolve? 108 5.10 The Growth of Populations of Cells 110 5.11 Moving and Communicating 111 5.12 Viruses 116 5.13 Prions 118 5.14 Conclusions 118 Questions for Review and Reflection 119 Bibliography 119 6 Energy for Life 121 6.1 Energy and Astrobiology 121 6.2 Life and Energy 122 6.3 The Central Role of Adenosine Triphosphate 123 6.4 Chemiosmosis and Energy Acquisition 125 6.5 What Types of Electron Donors and Acceptors Can Be Used? 128 6.6 Aerobic Respiration 129 6.7 Anaerobic Respiration 132 6.8 Fermentation 134 6.9 Chemoautotrophs: Changing the Electron Donor 134 6.10 Energy from Light: Photosynthesis 142 6.11 Oxygenic Photosynthesis 142 6.12 Anoxygenic Photosynthesis 145 6.13 Rhodopsins and Photosynthesis 148 6.14 Evolution of Photosynthesis 149 6.15 Global Biogeochemical Cycles 150 6.16 Microbial Mats – Energy-Driven Zonation in Life 152 6.17 The Thermodynamics of Energy Acquisition and Life 154 6.18 Energy and Life in Extremes 156 6.19 Conclusions 158 Questions for Review and Reflection 158 Bibliography 158 7 The Limits of Life 161 7.1 The Limits of Life 161 7.2 The Importance of the Limits of Life for Astrobiology 162 7.3 The Most Extreme Conditions are Dominated by Microbes 163 7.4 Life at High Temperatures 165 7.5 Life at Low Temperatures 167 7.6 Salt-Loving Organisms 170 7.7 pH Extremes 173 7.8 Life Under High Pressure 174 7.9 Tolerance to High Radiation 176 7.10 Life in Toxic Brews 176 7.11 Rocks as a Habitat 177 7.12 Polyextremophiles – Dealing with Multiple Extremes 180 7.13 Life Underground 181 7.14 Dormancy in Extreme Conditions 183 7.15 Eukaryotic Extremophiles 184 7.16 Are There Other Biospheres with Different Limits? 185 7.17 The Limits of Life: Habitability Revisited 186 7.18 Conclusions 186 Questions for Review and Reflection 186 Bibliography 187 8 The Tree of Life 189 8.1 A Vast Quantity of Life 189 8.2 Evolution and a “Tree of Life” 190 8.3 Classifying Organisms 192 8.4 The Tree of Life and Some Definitions 194 8.5 Problems with Classification: Homology and Analogy 196 8.6 Building a Phylogenetic Tree Using Genetic Material 198 8.7 Types of Phylogenetic Trees 202 8.8 A Modern View of the Tree of Life 202 8.9 Using Phylogenetic Trees to Test Hypotheses 204 8.10 Complications in Building Trees 206 8.11 Origin of Eukaryotes 210 8.12 The Last Universal Common Ancestor 211 8.13 Multiple Origins of Life? 212 8.14 Alien Life 213 8.15 Conclusions 214 Questions for Review and Reflection 214 Bibliography 214 9 The Universe, the Solar System, and the Elements of Life 217 9.1 Our Cosmic Situation 217 9.2 In the Beginning: The Formation of the Universe 218 9.3 Stellar Evolution: Low-Mass Stars 222 9.4 Stellar Evolution: High-Mass Stars 224 9.5 The Elements of Life 228 9.6 The Hertzsprung–Russell Diagram 228 9.7 The Sun is a Blackbody 232 9.8 The Formation of Planets 233 9.9 Types of Objects in Our Solar System 236 9.10 Meteorites and Their Classification 239 9.11 Laws Governing the Motion of Planetary Bodies 243 9.12 Conclusions 245 Questions for Review and Reflection 246 Bibliography 246 10 Astrochemistry: Carbon in Space 249 10.1 Astrochemistry: Carbon Molecules in Space 249 10.2 Observing Organics 249 10.3 In the Beginning 250 10.4 Different Environments for Chemistry 251 10.5 How Do Chemical Reactions Occur? 254 10.6 Forming Carbon Compounds 256 10.7 Formation of Water 257 10.8 Interstellar Grains 258 10.9 Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons 258 10.10 Even More Carbon Diversity 261 10.11 Comets and Organic Molecules 261 10.12 The Origin of Chirality 262 10.13 Laboratory Experiments 263 10.14 Observing Organic Molecules 264 10.15 Conclusions 265 Questions for Review and Reflection 265 Bibliography 266 11 Early Earth: The First Billion Years 267 11.1 The First Billion Years of Earth 267 11.2 Earth Forms and Differentiates 267 11.3 The Formation of the Moon 268 11.4 The Early Oceans 270 11.5 The Early Crust 273 11.6 The Early Atmosphere 273 11.7 The Temperature of Early Earth 275 11.8 The Late Heavy Bombardment 275 11.9 Implications of the Early Environment for Life 278 11.10 Conclusions 280 Questions for Review and Reflection 280 Bibliography 281 12 The Origin of Life 283 12.1 The Origin of Life 283 12.2 The Synthesis of Organic Compounds on Earth 284 12.3 Delivery from the Extraterrestrial Environment 288 12.4 The RNA World 291 12.5 Early Cells 294 12.6 Where Did the Origin of Life Occur? 295 12.7 A Cold Origin of Life? 301 12.8 The Whole Earth as a Reactor? 301 12.9 Conclusions 302 Questions for Review and Reflection 302 Bibliography 302 13 Early Life on Earth 305 13.1 Early Life on Earth 305 13.2 Early Life – Metabolisms and Possibilities 305 13.3 Isotopic Fractionation 308 13.4 Measuring the Isotope Fractionation: The Delta Notation 311 13.5 Sulfur Isotope Fractionation 311 13.6 Using Isotopes to Look for Ancient Life 312 13.7 Morphological Evidence for Life 315 13.8 Biomarkers 321 13.9 Contamination is a Problem 322 13.10 Instruments Used to Look for Life 323 13.11 A Brief Summary 326 13.12 The Search for Extraterrestrial Life 327 13.13 Conclusions 327 Questions for Review and Reflection 327 Bibliography 327 14 The Geology of a HabitableWorld 329 14.1 The Geological History of Earth: A Habitable World 329 14.2 Minerals and Glasses 330 14.3 Types of Rocks 331 14.4 The Rock Cycle 334 14.5 The Composition of Earth 336 14.6 Plate Tectonics 338 14.7 Dating the Age of the Earth (and Other Planetary Bodies) 344 14.8 Age-Dating Rocks 345 14.9 Geological Timescales 352 14.10 The Major Classifications of Geological Time 352 14.11 Some Geological Times and Biological Changes 353 14.12 Conclusions 360 Questions for Review and Reflection 360 Bibliography 360 15 The Co-evolution of Life and a Planet: The Rise of Oxygen 363 15.1 Dramatic Changes on Earth 363 15.2 Measuring Oxygen Through Time 364 15.3 It Was Not a Simple Rise 368 15.4 Summarizing the Evidence for the GOE 370 15.5 The Source of Oxygen 371 15.6 Sinks for Oxygen 371 15.7 Why Did Atmospheric Oxygen Concentrations Rise? 372 15.8 Snowball Earth Episodes 373 15.9 Other Biological Consequences of the Rise of Oxygen 376 15.10 Oxygen and the Rise of Animals 377 15.11 Oxygen and the Rise of Intelligence 379 15.12 Periods of High Oxygen 379 15.13 Conclusions 380 Questions for Review and Reflection 380 Bibliography 381 16 Mass Extinctions 383 16.1 Extinctions 383 16.2 What is Extinction? 383 16.3 Five Major Mass Extinctions 385 16.4 Other Extinctions in Earth History 386 16.5 Causes of Mass Extinction 386 16.6 The End-Cretaceous Extinction 388 16.7 The Other Four Big Extinctions of the Phanerozoic 392 16.8 Do Microorganisms Go Extinct? 396 16.9 Recovery from Extinction 396 16.10 Can We Avoid Extinction? 398 16.11 The Sixth Mass Extinction? 400 16.12 Conclusions 401 Questions for Review and Reflection 401 Bibliography 401 17 The Habitability of Planetary Bodies 403 17.1 What is “Habitability”? 403 17.2 The Habitable Zone 405 17.3 Maintaining Temperature Conditions on a Planet Suitable for Water and Life 408 17.4 Plate Tectonics and Habitability 414 17.5 Does the Moon Play a Role in Habitability? 416 17.6 Other Planetary Factors that Influence Habitability 417 17.7 Surface Liquid Water, Habitability, and Intelligence 418 17.8 Habitable Environments Need Not Always Contain Life 418 17.9 Worlds More Habitable than Earth? 420 17.10 The Anthropic Principle and Habitability 420 17.11 The Fate of Earth 420 17.12 The Galactic Habitable Zone 421 17.13 The Right Galaxy? 422 17.14 Conclusions 422 Questions for Review and Reflection 423 Bibliography 423 18 The Astrobiology of Mars 425 18.1 Mars and Astrobiology 425 18.2 Martian Geological History: A Very Brief Summary 426 18.3 The Environmental Deterioration of Mars 427 18.4 Missions to Mars 429 18.5 Mars and Life 435 18.6 Trajectories of Martian Habitability 451 18.7 The Viking Program and the Search for Life 455 18.8 Searching for Life by Investigating Gases 458 18.9 Martian Meteorites 458 18.10 Mars Analog Environments 460 18.11 Panspermia: The Transfer of Life between Planets? 463 18.12 Conclusions 467 Questions for Review and Reflection 467 Bibliography 468 19 Ocean Worlds and Icy Moons 471 19.1 The Astrobiology of Moons 471 19.2 The Moons of Jupiter: Europa 472 19.3 The Moons of Jupiter: Ganymede and Callisto 477 19.4 The Moons of Jupiter: Io 479 19.5 The Moons of Saturn: Enceladus 479 19.6 The Moons of Saturn: Titan 484 19.7 Other Icy Worlds 490 19.8 Planetary Protection 494 19.9 Conclusions 496 Questions for Review and Reflection 496 Bibliography 496 20 Exoplanets and the Search for Life 499 20.1 Exoplanets and Life 499 20.2 Detecting Exoplanets 500 20.3 Exoplanet Properties 508 20.4 Detecting Life 517 20.5 Surface Biosignatures 522 20.6 How Likely are These Signatures? 525 20.7 Other Ways to Find Life 525 20.8 Missions to Detect Biosignatures 526 20.9 Conclusions 527 Questions for Review and Reflection 527 Bibliography 528 21 The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence 529 21.1 The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) 529 21.2 Methods in the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence 530 21.3 Communication with Extraterrestrial Intelligence (CETI) 533 21.4 The Drake Equation 537 21.5 The Fermi Paradox 538 21.6 Classifying Civilizations 542 21.7 Policy Implications 543 21.8 Conclusions 544 Questions for Review and Reflection 544 Bibliography 544 22 Our Civilization 547 22.1 Astrobiology and Human Civilization 547 22.2 The Emergence of Human Society 547 22.3 Threats to a Civilization 551 22.4 Climate Change and the Challenge to Civilization 553 22.5 The Human Future Beyond Earth 555 22.6 Settling the Solar System 556 22.7 Avoiding Extinction or Collapse: A Multiplanet Species 565 22.8 Environmentalism and Space Exploration as a Single Goal? 566 22.9 Sociology: The Overview Effect 567 22.10 Will We Become Interstellar? 568 22.11 Conclusions 569 Questions for Review and Reflection 569 Bibliography 569 Appendix 571 A.1 The Astrobiology Periodic Table 571 A.2 Units and Scales 571 A.2.1 Standard International Base Units 571 A.2.2 Basic Physical Constants 572 A.3 Temperature Scale Conversion 572 A.4 Composition of the Sun 573 A.5 Some of the Major Star Types, Temperatures, and Colors 573 A.6 Three- and One-Letter Designations of Amino Acids 573 A.7 Codon Table for the Genetic Code Associated with mRNA (also shown in Chapter 5; Figure 5.12) 574 A.8 Planetary Data 575 A.9 Geological Time Scale 576 Glossary 577 Index 601

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Book SynopsisThank your lucky stars for this completely comprehensive guide to our Universe. From asteroids and constellations to galaxies and planets, this star-studded look at space is the perfect package for space cadets and amateur astronomers. ??Part of DK''s best-selling Nature Guide series, Stars and Planets takes you out of this world to experience the beautiful sights and intricate details of our incredible Solar System. Packed with stunning images and expert information, you''ll enjoy the whole world at your fingertips. You''ll visit each and every planet and fly past the Kuiper Belt on this intrepid, intergalactic adventure. Come back down to Earth to discover all the tools and techniques you need to observe the spectacular night skies. You''ll see all 88 constellations in their sparkling splendour and read the stories behind their amazing shapes and patterns. The monthly sky guide will keep your eyes on the skies all year round.??Grab thi

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Book SynopsisNew paperback edition - This detailed examination of our steps into space is viewed from our potential future there â on Mars to be exact â and considers how we will reach that point.Trade Review‘A handy reference for space fans and professionals alike’ -- Publishers Weekly‘The way to the stars in open.’ -- Sergei Korolev

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Book Synopsis Astronomy: A Complete Introduction will ensure you recognize what you are seeing in the night sky. You will investigate the sun, moon, planets comets and stars and learn how to observe them. This comprehensive guide, complete with star charts, will map out the skies and allow you to impress your friends with your knowledge of the sky at night.Astronomy: A Complete Introduction includes:Chapter 1: Introducing AstronomyChapter 2: The spinning skyChapter 3: Sky-watchersChapter 4: The astronomer''s telescopeChapter 5: Into spaceChapter 6: The SunChapter 7: The MoonChapter 8: The Sun''s familyChapter 9: The inner planetsChapter 10: The outer planetsChapter 11: Minor members of the Solar SystemChapter 12: The starsChapter 13: Pattern of starsChapter 14: Double and variable starsChapter 15: The life and times of a starChapter 16: The Star-clusters and nebulaeChapter 17: The depths of the univers

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Book SynopsisFollowing the ‘Big Bang’, it took the universe billions of years to evolve into the unique system of stars and planets that we know of today. Scientists have studied the planets of our solar system for centuries, and are beginning to understand the billions of stars and other bodies that make up the Universe. Stars and Planets is an ideal reference book for anyone interested in astronomy, featuring 300 of the most well known stars, planets, moons, constellations and other cosmological phenomena, such as black holes and quasars. Each entry includes an image – either a photograph or an artist’s impression or diagram – and a key information table including specifications such as the mass, radius, surface temperature, distance from sun, gravity and major elements of each object. Presented in a handy, pocket-size format, full of facts and engaging text, Stars and Planets is a valuable reference source as well as a fascinating read, revealing the spectacular world of the Cosmos. Table of ContentsIntroduction 6 The Solar System 14 The Constellations 112 The Stars 200 Galaxies 267 The Universe 309 Glossary 314 Index 316

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisPtolemyâs The Almagest brought together the ideas of Greek Antiquity, that the sun and planets revolved around the earth, the geocentric view which was used by European, Byzantine and Islamic scholars for 1400 years until Copernicus placed the sun as the focus of the solar system. This new book offers an accessible version of Ptolemyâs great work.

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Book SynopsisA unique perspective on the contemporary UFO disclosure process, that will change the way we see ourselves and our history on this planet.

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Book SynopsisStars are the building blocks of galaxies. Astoundingly, there are 4,000 million stars in our own Milky Way, and there are two million million galaxies in our visible universe. Stars are simply luminous spheres of plasma held together by gravity, but their age, location and composition are the ciphers that can explain the evolution and dynamics of the galaxy within which they exist. Forty Ways to Know a Star offers forty distinct ways of encountering, explaining and knowing a star. You might know it by its birth, by its death, by its galaxy, from a distance, from its matter, or up close and personal. Each meeting is illuminated by bespoke illustrations, and they combine to create a broader canvas of the many forms and incarnations that stars take. Elegant writing turns the complexity of the physics into irresistible storytelling, and beautiful photographic imagery of the heavens is scattered throughout.

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Book SynopsisSince ancient times, humans have been engaged in a continual quest to find meaning in and make sense of sights and events in the night sky. Cultures spread around the world recorded their earliest efforts in artwork made directly on the natural landscapes around them, and from there they developed more and more sophisticated techniques for observing and documenting astronomy.This book brings readers on an astronomical journey through the ages, offering a history of how our species has recorded and interpreted the night sky over time. From cave art to parchment scribe to modern X-ray mapping of the sky, it chronicles the ever-quickening development of tools that informed and at times entirely toppled our understanding of the natural world.Our documentation and recording techniques formed the bedrock for increasingly complex forays into astronomy and celestial mechanics, which are addressed within these chapters. Additionally, the book explores how nature itself has recorded the skies in its own way, which can be unraveled through ongoing geological and archaeological studies. This tale of human discovery and ingenuity over the ages will appeal to anybody interested in the field of astronomy and its rich cultural history.Trade Review“The book is a must-read that enables readers to explore both where we have come from and the possibilities that lie ahead.” (Bernie Taylor, Physics Today, June, 2020)Table of ContentsChapter One – Introduction.- Chapter Two – Cave Paintings – Part I.- Chapter Three – Cave Paintings - Part II.- Chapter Four – The Astrolabe.- Chapter Five – Supernovae.- Chapter Six – Mercury Transitions.- Chapter Seven – Shi Shen to Charles Messier.- Chapter Eight – The 1639 Transit of Venus.- Chapter Nine – Comets.- Chapter Ten – Astronomical Observatories.- Chapter Eleven – Fossils, Tree Rings, and Ice.- Index.

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Book SynopsisThis book introduces the reader to the wonders of Mars, covering all aspects from our past perceptions of the planet through to the latest knowledge on its history, its surface processes such as impact cratering, volcano formation, and glaciation, and its atmosphere and climate. In addition, a series of ten intriguing open issues are considered in a more advanced way. These include such thought-provoking questions as What turned off the planet’s magnetic field?, Why are the northern and southern hemispheres so different?, What was the fate of the once abundant water?, and Is there, or was there, life on Mars? Numerous original figures, unavailable elsewhere, reproduce details of images from Viking, CTX, MOC, HiRISE, THEMIS, and HRSC. The book will appeal especially to general readers interested in planetary sciences, astronomy, astrogeology, and space exploration and to students of Earth Sciences and Natural and Environmental Sciences. The higher-level material on the remaining mysteries of Mars will also be of interest to astrogeologists and other researchers.Trade Review“This slender volume offers a useful, quick study on Mars. … The book is richly illustrated in both black and white and color. It is written in an accessible style that is thoroughly peppered with fact after fact; De Blasio offers plenty to intrigue readers about one of Earth's closest neighbors.” (P. K. Strother, Choice, Vol. 56 (10), June, 2019)Table of ContentsPart I: Mars through the millennia.- Mars as a heavenly warrior.- Mars with its odd orbit enters science.- Schiaparelli, Lowell, and the Martians.- Martian engineers or Martian lichens?.- Mars as seen by Mariners and Vikings.- A long interval and the return to Mars.- Technical box: Sending a spacecraft to Mars.- Mars in its orbit.- The big disappointment.- The rocks of the Martian surface.- The final answer.- Part II: history and geography of Mars.- The geography of Mars, shortly.- The interior of Mars.- Mystery No. 1. Why has Mars no magnetic field ?.- Ancient Mars: the Noachian period.- Mystery No. 2: Has Mars ever had a plate tectonics ?.- A tour on Noachian terrains of Mars: Noachis Terra.- The middle period: the Hesperian.- A tour on the Hesperian outflow channels.- The last period: the Amazonian.- Geological formations of Mars.- Part III: Processes at the surface of Mars.- Martian mountains.- The northern lowlands.- Mystery No. 3: What is the origin of the global dichotomy, which divides so sharply the North from the South of Mars?.- The giant impact basins on Mars.- Technical box: Impact cratering on Earth and Mars.- Valles Marineris.- Mistery No. 4: How were the Valles Marineris formed?.- The volcanoes of Mars.- Technical: Volcanic eruptions on Earth and Mars.- Mystery No. 5: Enigmatic mountains and mysterious geological formations (the strange arc of Acheron, the halos of Olympus Mons, Vastitas Borealis and Medusae Fossae formations).- Part IV: an exhibition of martian images.- Fractures.- Ice-related landforms.- Technical box: Optical images, infrared, radar maps. How data are acquired from remote sensing.- Catastrophic landslides.- Mystery No. 6: Great Ice age on Mars ?.- Morphologies due to wind.- Morphologies due to water.- Mystery No. 7: Was there an ocean on Mars?.- Breathtaking views.- Mystery No. 8: The enigmatic outflow channels.- Part V: The atmosphere, climate and life on Mars.- The atmosphere of Mars.- Dust devils.- The atmosphere of Mars.- The ice caps.- Mystery No. 9: How has the atmosphere of Mars changed? And what happened to the once abundant water ?.- The search for life on Mars.- Martian meteorites.- Mystery No. 10: Is there or was there life on Mars ?.- Ancient civilization on Mars ?.- Upcoming missions to Mars.- How to get to Mars and back.- Colonize Mars ?.- Terraforming.- Technical appendices.- Martian data.- Planitiae, Fossae, Terrae: Nomenclature of planetary geology.- Missions to: past, current, future.

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Book SynopsisLong before GPS and Google Earth, humans traveled vast distances using environmental clues and simple instruments. What is lost when technology substitutes for our innate capacity to find our way? Illustrated with 200 drawings, this narrative—part treatise, part travelogue, and part navigational history—brings our own world into sharper view.Trade ReviewOne of the repeated themes of The Lost Art of Finding Our Way is that even the most confused of us can improve our navigational understanding by paying closer attention to the world around us… A learned and encyclopedic grab bag, packed with information drawn from study and Huth’s own experience. -- Michael Dirda * Washington Post *It’s a great reference, filled with personal and historical anecdotes and fascinating bits of physics, astronomy, oceanography, and meteorology. And that’s one of Huth’s central points: To find your way in a world without maps, you can’t rely on any single cue—you need to make the best of whatever combination of cues is available to you… With a little study, The Lost Art of Finding Our Way could be your guide to reconnecting with the navigational aids in the world around you. -- Greg Miller * Wired *John Huth’s The Lost Art of Finding Our Way is a book for anyone who’s ever cursed themselves for not being able to get home by way of the stars and winds. Or for anyone who wants to learn how the Vikings and others once managed to. -- Thomas Meaney * Times Literary Supplement *Full of wisdom that is fast disappearing in an age of satnav and GPS. -- Arthur Musgrave * The Guardian *[Huth’s] exuberance shines through: he makes gadgets in his garage and narrates adventures at sea. Huth’s is a book filled with joy about what we might term the everyday mathematics of living on the Earth… Huth is concerned that we have become desensitized to our physical environment because of technology such as smartphones and global positioning systems, which do the work of plotting and routefinding for us. To live in what Huth dubs ‘the bubble’ created by such devices is to lose not only our wonder at the world but also a bundle of precious survival skills. To be able to find our way in the world is to reconnect with its value in a virtuous spiral of environmental awareness. -- Robert J. Mayhew * Times Higher Education *The book offers a clear, comprehensive, and entertaining short course in navigation that draws on Earth science, history, anthropology, neuroscience, archaeology, and linguistics. It provides both a primer on navigational techniques and a tour through ‘the historical evolution of way finding.’ Huth punctuates instruction on celestial navigation and reading wind, weather, and currents with engaging stories and images. These are derived from sources as varied as the oral histories of Pacific Islanders and Inuit hunters, Homer’s Odyssey, Icelandic sagas, navigational tables from the medieval Islamic world, and contemporary news reports and sailing accounts. -- Deirdre Lockwood * Science *Humanity’s lust for exploring terra incognita shaped and tested our prodigious capacity for mental mapping. Now, with the advent of the Global Positioning System, wayfaring skills are on the wane. Physicist John Edward Huth turns explorer in this rich, wide-ranging and lucidly illustrated primer on how to find yourself in the middle of somewhere. Huth’s prescription for navigating fog, darkness, open ocean, thick forests or unknown terrain rests first on harnessing compass, Sun and stars; then on the subtleties of weather forecasting and decoding markers such as the wind, waves and tides. * Nature *[An] irresistible book… Huth has an affable, smart tone, as welcoming as a Billy Collins poem. His knowledge of way-finding and its history is rangy and detailed, but his enthusiasm never flickers, lifting the educational factor to higher ground: rewarding, artful, ably conveying what can be some fairly abstruse material, the finer points of navigation being among them. There are, by the way, many, many fine points regarding navigation, and if Huth gets a bit windy in pointing them out, well, let the wind blow. It’s refreshing. -- Peter Lewis * Barnes & Noble Review *Early humans learned to navigate on land and sea by watching the world around them… Huth recovers some of this history by looking at Norse legends, the records of Arab traders moving across the Indian Ocean and Pacific Islanders… Huth’s subject is fascinating… We have lost many of our innate abilities on the way to this technologically advanced moment in time. But John Edward Huth believes, and his book shows, that some of what was lost can still be found. We just need to relearn how to read the signs. -- Anthony Sattin * Literary Review *Lamenting the loss of navigational skills, [Huth] set out to collect in one volume the many schemes that kept our forebears alive. Ancient explorers could, through navigational nous, undertake voyages over great expanses of ocean and land to establish settlements and trade routes, and return home. -- Peter Monaghan * Chronicle of Higher Education *Just as we are said to have abandoned the art of memory when we started writing things down, so Huth says that we have lost our instinct for knowing how to get from here to there. Before the scientific revolution we had the ability to interpret environmental information that enabled us to navigate long distances. Huth surveys Pacific Islanders, medieval Arab traders, Vikings and early Western European travellers before examining techniques for navigators to look to the stars for astronomical beacons, as well as to the weather and the water. -- Iain Finlayson * The Times *

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Book SynopsisInterweaving physics, astronomy, chemistry, geology, and biology, this book tells Earth's complete story, from the synthesis of chemical elements in stars, to the formation of the Solar System, to the evolution of a habitable climate on Earth, to the origin of life and humankind.Trade ReviewHonorable Mention for the 2012 Award for Best Professional/Scholarly Book in Earth Sciences, Association of American Publishers "[T]his classic history of our common home with the latest discoveries in planetary science ... is a cutting-edge exploration of the Earth's evolution from the Big Bang to the advent of human civilization."--Barnes & Noble Review "To be worth being this unwieldy, a book ought to do something pretty remarkable. And that's just what How to Build ... does, as you can tell from its subtitle, The Story of Earth from the Big Bang to Humankind. Now that's what you call a large canvas."--Brian Clegg, Popular Science "Like any good story, the tale that Langmuir and Broecker tell is a complex, weaving narrative that would be ideally placed on your bookcase between James Kasting's How to Find a Habitable Planet and Peter Ward and Donald Brownlee's Rare Earth... As non-astronomers they cover the initial cosmological and astronomical sections adequately, but as the book develops towards explaining the processes that make Earth habitable, the authors' expertise really comes to the fore... How to Build a Habitable Planet is Earth's story, but Langmuir and Broecker conclude with a nod to exoplanets and the search for alien life. Could it one day also become another planet's story?"--Astronomy Now "The authors ... have taken on a mighty task. You cannot underestimate the accuracy of their scholarship, or its thoroughness."--Heather Couper, BBC Sky at Night "This is a completely different book, wholly updated but also more detailed and more comprehensive. Yet, it keeps the bright flavour of the old version, and remains accessible without compromising on accuracy... How to Build a Habitable Planet is an accurate and enjoyable read."--Euan G. Nisbet, Nature Geoscience "Enormous advances have been made in the Earth sciences in the years since the original volume appeared. In addition, climate change has become a much more urgent topic. The revised version aims to bring the science up to date and to give a current environmental perspective. In this undertaking, Broecker has been joined by Langmuir, who now becomes first author. Their approach of providing each chapter with a clear introduction and summary will help greatly in accommodating the lay reader... We can be grateful to the authors that they had the initiative and energy to undertake a scientific synthesis of such broad scope... All who are concerned with the global environment and who wish to be scientifically well-informed in relation to it will find the book a worthwhile and inspirational challenge."--Ray Bates, Irish Times "[Langmuir and Broecker] strike a nice balance with roughly an equal number of chapters devoted to life, earth, and extraterrestrial processes... What makes it work is the authors' admirable job of focusing tightly on how the many processes they outline feed into life's makeup or systems needed to support it."--Choice "Although this 718 page book is over twice as long compared to the first edition, it is still a comfortable read both for earth scientists as well as nonspecialists. The diverse topics dealt with have been skillfully stitched together and each chapter provides lucid descriptions, logical discussions and a nice summary. This book could be an useful text for undergraduate students in earth sciences and with necessary supplements, could also be used for advanced courses in earth sciences."--Ramananda Chakrabarti, Current Science "I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a well-informed exploration of the theories behind building a habitable planet. Although complex in some places, it is still accessible to many and is overall a very useful addition to any astrobiologist's library."--Samantha Rolfe, Astrobiology Society of GB "This classic account of how our habitable planet was assembled from the stuff of stars introduced readers to planetary, Earth, and climate science by way of a fascinating narrative. Now it has been made even better."--Lunar and Planetary Information Bulletin "Generally speaking, the book by Langmuir & Broecker is very reader friendly... It can become an essential reading for both beginners and professionals in geology, palaeontology, and other natural sciences. Geoscience educators will also praise it... This book is a very good addition to the conventional textbooks on general geology, and it can be recommended for students as advanced reading."--Dmitry A. Ruban, Palaontologie AllgemeinTable of ContentsPreface xv Chapter 1. Introduction: Earth and Life as Natural Systems 1 Introduction 2 The Power and Limitations of Scientific Reductionism 4 Chaos 7 "Systems" 13 Characteristics of "Natural Systems" 15 Natural Systems Are Out of Equilibrium 15 Natural Systems Are Maintained by External Energy Sources 17 "Steady-State Disequilibrium" Is Maintained by Feedbacks and Cycles 17 Summary 24 Supplementary Readings 25 Chapter 2. The Setting: The Big Bang and Galaxy Formation 27 Introduction 28 The Big Bang 28 The Red Shift: Measuring Velocity 31 Measuring Distance 34 The Velocity-Distance Relationship: Dating the Beginning 41 Added Support for the Big Bang Hypothesis 43 An Expanding Universe and Dark Energy 47 Aftermath of the Big Bang 48 Summary 49 Supplementary Readings 49 Chapter 3. The Raw Material: Synthesis of Elements in Stars 51 Introduction 52 The Chemical Composition of the Sun 52 Hydrogen, Helium, Galaxies, Stars 54 Descriptive Atomic Physics 55 Element Production during the Big Bang 61 Element Formation in Stars 62 Element Synthesis by Neutron Capture 66 Evidence Supporting the Stellar Hypothesis 71 Summary 77 Supplementary Readings 81 Chapter 4. Preliminary Fabrication: Formation of Organic and Inorganic Molecules 83 Introduction 84 Molecules 88 States of Matter 90 Volatility 92 Density 94 The Two Great Classes of Molecules: Inorganic and Organic 95 Minerals 96 Organic Molecules 104 Environments of Molecular Construction 107 Summary 110 Chapter 5. The Heavy Construction: The Formation of Planets and Moons from a Solar Nebula 113 Introduction 114 Planetary Vital Statistics 117 Planetary Mass 117 Planetary Densities 119 Planetary Composition 120 Evidence from Meteorites 122 Scenario for Solar System Creation 128 Understanding the Chemical Compositions of the Terrestrial Planets 132 Summary 139 Supplementary Readings 139 Chapter 6. The Schedule: Quantifying the Timescale with Radionuclides 141 Introduction 142 Measuring Time with Radioactive Decay 145 The Isochron Technique of Radioactive Dating 150 Age of the Chondrites and Earth 154 Age of the Elements 157 Unlocking the Secrets of Ancient Short-lived Processes with Extinct Radionuclides 164 26Al and the Presence of Supernovas in the Vicinity of the Solar Nebula 165 Summary 168 Supplementary Reading 169 Chapter 7. Interior Modifications: Segregation into Core, Mantle, Crust, Ocean, and Atmosphere 171 Introduction 172 Earth Structure 173 Chemical Composition of Earth's Layers 180 Chemical Affinities of the Elements 183 Origin of Earth's Layers 188 Separation of Core from Mantle 189 Timing of Core Formation 191 Origin of the Crust 194 Origin of the Atmosphere and Ocean 204 Summary 206 Chapter 8. Contending with the Neighbors: Moons, Asteroids, Comets, and Impacts 209 Introduction 210 The Diversity of Objects in the Solar System 212 Origin of the Moon 218 Using Impacts to Date Planetary Surfaces 223 Lunar Interior Modifications 230 History of Impacts in the Solar System 236 Implications for the Earth 239 Future Impacts 245 Summary 246 Supplementary Readings 247 Chapter 9. Making It Comfortable: Running Water, Temperature Control, and Sun Protection 249 Introduction 250 The Planetary Volatile Budget 251 Evidence for Liquid Water before 4.0 Ga 253 Stable Isotope Fractionation 255 Controls on Volatiles at the Surface 257 Atmospheric Loss to Space 258 Cycling of Volatiles between the Surface and Earth's Interior 264 Surface Temperature 265 Earth's Long-Term Thermostat 271 A Lesson from Venus 276 Snowball Earth 278 Sun Protection 280 Summary 282 Supplementary Readings 282 Chapter 10. Establishing the Circulation: Plate Tectonics 285 Introduction 286 The Static Earth Viewpoint 287 Continental Drift Theory 289 New Data from the Ocean Floor 291 Evidence from Paleomagnetism 293 Global Distribution of Seismicity 298 The Theory of Plate Tectonics 301 The Plate Tectonic Revolution 306 Movements through Time 309 Summary 311 Supplementary Readings 312 Chapter 11. Internal Circulation: Mantle Convection and Its Relationship to the Surface 315 Introduction 316 Movement of Earth's Interior 317 Earth's Topography and Mantle Flow 319 Mantle Convection 322 Must the Mantle Convect? 325 Does Plate Geometry Correspond to Mantle Convection Cells? 328 Active Mantle Upwelling: Plume Heads and Tails 335 Formation of the Ocean Crust at Spreading Centers 342 Summary 347 Supplementary Readings 347 Chapter 12. Linking the Layers: Solid Earth, Liquid Ocean, and Gaseous Atmosphere 349 Introduction 350 The Global System of Ocean Ridges 351 Hydrothermal Circulation at Spreading Centers 354 Ocean Ridges and Habitability 362 The Puzzle of Seawater Composition 362 Element Transport to the Subduction Zone 366 Geochemical Processing at Convergent Margins 369 Cause of Melting and Volcanism at Convergent Margins 369 Element Transport to the Continental Crust 375 Final Consequences of Plate Recirculation 377 Summary 379 Supplementary Readings 381 Chapter 13. Colonizing the Surface: The Origin of Life as a Planetary Process 383 Introduction 384 Life and the Universe 385 The Unity of Life 390 Life Is Cellular 390 All Life Uses the Same Groups of Molecules 391 All Life Uses the Same Chemical Machinery 396 Earliest Life 398 When Did Life Begin? 401 Life's Origin 406 Steps in the Path to Life 408 Elemental and Simple Molecular Building Blocks 409 Making the Essential Biochemical Ingredients 410 Building Complex Molecules 412 A Cellular Container 415 The Missing Links 417 Some General Considerations on the Origin of Life 420 Summary 424 Supplementary Readings 424 Chapter 14. Dealing with the Competition: The Roles of Evolution and Extinction in Creating the Diversity of Life 427 Introduction 428 History of Life and Earth Revealed through the Rock Record 432 Relating Fossils to Present-Day Life: The Theory of Evolution 438 The DNA Revolution 441 The Extinction Half of Evolution 447 Summary 450 Supplementary Readings 451 Chapter 15. Energizing the Surface: Coevolution of Life and Planet to Create a Planetary Fuel Cell 453 Introduction 454 Life as an Electrical Current 455 A Reduced Early Earth 457 The First Three Energy Revolutions 463 The Planetary Fuel Cell 469 Summary 472 Chapter 16. Exterior Modifications: The Record of Oxidation of the Planetary Surface 475 Introduction 476 Earth and Oxygen 477 Carbon: The Record of Oxygen Production 480 Carbon: Evidence from the Rock Record 483 Iron and Sulfur: The Record of Oxygen Consumption 486 Iron: Evidence from the Rock Record 488 Sulfur: Evidence from the Rock Record 493 Evidence for High O2 in the Phanerozoic 497 Oxygen from 2.0 Ga to 0.6 Ga 498 Global Oxygen Mass Balance 502 Summary 506 Supplementary Readings 507 Chapter 17. Planetary Evolution: The Importance of Catastrophes and the Question of Directionality 509 Introduction 510 Planetary Evolution during the Phanerozoic 511 Causes of Extinction Events 516 The Cretaceous/Tertiary Extinction 517 The Permo-Triassic Extinction 521 Plate Tectonics and Evolution 526 Principles of Planetary Evolution? 527 Increased Relationship and Complexity 527 Change in Energy Utilization with Time 529 Speculations on the Possibility of Directionality to Evolution 531 Evolution of Habitability 534 Summary 536 Supplementary Readings 537 Chapter 18. Coping with the Weather: Causes and Consequences of Naturally Induced Climate Change 539 Introduction 540 Intermediate Term Climate Variations: Ice Ages 541 Orbital Cycles 544 Abrupt Climate Change 555 The Great Ocean Conveyor 560 Human Impacts 564 Summary 565 Supplementary Readings 565 Chapter 19. The Rise of Homo Sapiens: Access to Earth's Treasure Chest Permits a Planetary Takeover 567 Introduction 568 Dawn of the Human Era 569 The Human Energy Revolution 573 Earth's Treasure Chest 575 Classes of Resources 580 Resources with Short Recycling Times: Air and Water 580 Vast Resources with Recycling Potential: Metals 586 Finite Resources with No Recycling 589 Fossil Fuels 589 Soils 593 Biodiversity 593 Summary 594 Chapter 20. Mankind at the Helm: Human Civilization in a Planetary Context 597 Introduction 599 Human Impacts on the Earth 600 Climate 600 Ocean Acidification 611 Biodiversity 614 Future Prospects 620 Historical Perspectives on the Future 628 Possible Solutions 632 Solving Greenhouse Gas Accumulation 635 Energy from the Sun, Wind, and Atom 635 Carbon Capture and Sequestration 637 The Broader Problem 643 An Anthropozoic Era? 644 Summary 646 Supplementary Readings 646 Chapter 21. Are We Alone? The Question of Habitability in the Universe 649 Introduction 650 Comparative Planetology--Lessons from Venus and Mars 652 Planet Finding 654 New Results from Kepler 659 The Number of Other Inhabited Planets in the Galaxy: A Probabilistic Approach 661 Human Civilization in the Context of Planetary Evolution and Life in the Universe 665 Summary 667 Supplementary Readings 668 Glossary 669 Index 687

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Book SynopsisIn a startling reinterpretation of the evidence, Stillman Drake advances the hypothesis that Galileo''s trial and condemnation by the Inquisition was caused not by his defiance of the Church, but by the hostility of contemporary philosophers.Galileo''s own beautifully lucid arguments are used to show how his scientific method was utterly divorced from the Aristotelian approach to physics in that it was based on a search not for causes but for laws. Galileo''s method was of overwhelming significance for the development of modern physics, and led to a final parting of the ways between science and philosophy. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade Reviewstimulating and very convincing. * Theology *Table of ContentsList of illustrations ; Introduction ; 1. The background ; 2. Galileo's early years ; 3. Conflicts with philosophers ; 4. Conflicts with astronomers and theologians ; 5. The Dialogue and the Inquisition ; 6. The final years ; Reading list ; Index

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Book SynopsisA rip-roaring tour of the cosmos with the Bad Astronomer, revealing the sky as never seen before—from everywhere but EarthTrade Review"A terrific guide to our spectacular universe...Plait is a skilled, resourceful and, on occasion, downright visionary guide to the far reaches of outer space. " -- Simon Ings - New Scientist"Plait has a well-deserved reputation as a lively and accurate communicator of cutting-edge science, and this universal tour guide offers a great opportunity for him to flex his explanatory muscles... this is a hugely enjoyable read that brings a new perspective to the cosmos. " -- Giles Sparrow - BBC Sky at Night Magazine"Vivid and tangible… Even a visit to the Moon, our closest and most familiar heavenly body, gave me fresh insights under Philip Plait’s guidance" -- Clive Cookson - Financial Times"Phil Plait takes us to nearby worlds and star systems far, far away, where we do plenty of exploration, a bit of astronomical science, and a lot of marveling. But it’s the descriptions of your spaceships and suits that will keep you strapped in and reading on. His flights of science fiction fantasy are scientific—and absolutely spectacular. Enjoy the rides." -- Bill Nye, CEO, The Planetary Society"A rollicking, wondrous, and awe-inspiring introduction to the universe. Phil Plait’s writing transports us to other worlds and in the process helps us to appreciate our own world." -- John Green, author of The Fault in Our Stars and The Anthropocene Reviewed"Plait takes us on a cosmic journey—a vivid guidebook for space tourists in the distant future." -- Clive Cookson - Financial Times

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Book SynopsisDid you know a compost heap generates as much energy as the Sun? Or that dung beetles use the Milky Way to navigate? Maybe you have not been into space but if you have then you will know that astronauts have feet as soft as babies! 101 Space Facts You Didn't Know (Note : Have we confirmed this title?) takes you on a wild journey around the Universe bringing you facts galore. Whether you are a space enthusiast or a newcomer you will find plenty of facts in here to keep you amused and entertained.

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Book SynopsisA stunning portrait of our vast, dynamic, and mysterious universe . . . as seen through the lenses of astronomy and artWhat is our place in the universe? Where do art and science overlap? How can we use these disciplines to better understand the universe . . . and how do they help us to shape our reality? In Painting the Cosmos, astrophysicist and visual artist Dr. Nia Imara comprehensively illustrates the history of the universe and our position in it through the interwoven perspectives of astrophysics and art. In this eye-opening and accessible book, Imara asks pivotal questions and explores humanity's ever-evolving view of nature. Richly illustrated with stunning full-color images of our universe and beautiful work from creators around the worldparticularly the often-neglected work of women and Black artists, this one-of-a-kind book unites the realms of art, science, and culture to create a dynamic portrait of the cosmos. From the Big Bang to life on other planets, while also explaining the most exciting recent developments in astronomy. With Imara's guiding expertise, readers will explore: The limits of objectivity in understanding reality The principles that govern movement in space and the role of rhythm in the universe and art How light functions as a storyteller How scientists and artists help us ';see' the invisiblefrom black holes to marginalized experiences The possibility of life beyond our solar system, and how we define intelligence Painting the Cosmos will captivate and inspire you to see the world around you in a brand new, fascinating light where space and art are beautifully intertwined.

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Book Synopsis'Mind-inflating' Wired 'A grand vision of the marvels we've discovered, and the immensity of what we still don't understand' Sunday Times What if the ancient Greeks were right, and the universe really did spring into being out of chaos and the void? How could we know? And what must its first moments have been like? To answer these questions, scientists are delving into all the hidden crevices of creation. Armed with giant telescopes and powerful particle accelerators, they probe the subtle mechanisms by which our familiar world came to be, and try to foretell the manner in which it will end. The result of all this collective effort is a complex tale, stranger at times than even our most ancient creation myths. Yet its building blocks give us the power to work marvels our predecessors could scarcely comprehend. In Genesis, the CERN physicist and bestselling author Guido Tonelli does poetic justice to that great story, the accomplishment of countless minds working together across the ages.Trade ReviewMost of us are familiar with the bare bones of the story - a moment of explosive expansion; then stars and planets form; finally, up we pop - but the detail is much richer and stranger ... Tonelli leaps - often in one paragraph - from minutiae to cosmic grandeur ... [This] hugely impressive book gives a grand vision of the marvels we've discovered, and the immensity of what we still don't understand. Maybe he should have called it Revelations instead -- Stephen Bleach * Sunday Times *Mind-inflating ... Genesis is suffused with the language and lessons of myth, so much of which we're only now catching up to. In a way, that's what science is for: to prove the stories true * Wired *Accessible and highly engaging ... Takes us on a journey from the big bang to the evolution of humans, blending Greek mythology with scientific exploration in a narrative that's lyrical and exhilarating in equal measure -- Hannah Beckerman * Observer *Einstein meets Ovid ... Grounded in theoretical science but sustained by artistic fervor, this account not only illuminates the precepts of modern cosmology for nonspecialists, but also endows those precepts with rare imaginative power ... Others have told this story, of course, but no one has so enriched the science of this cosmic drama with such meaningful forays into mythology, scripture, music, and history ... A science book that will matter deeply to nonscientists * Booklist starred review *Elegant, accessible ... Tonelli's storytelling successfully weaves curiosity, Greek mythology, and scientific discovery * Publishers Weekly starred review *Lush and inviting, offering countless points of entry even for those readers unfamiliar with fundamental concepts of physics ... An exhilarating exploration of the cosmos that is both poetic and cutting-edge * Kirkus starred review *Tonelli takes the reader on the most thrilling roller-coaster ride, starting with the void and ending 13.8 billion years later with the complex multiverse we currently inhabit. Neatly divided into seven chapters corresponding to different cosmological epochs, this is the modern-day Genesis narrative told by a master story teller. -- Marcus du Sautoy, Simonyi Professor for the Public Understanding of Science at the University of Oxford, author * The Creativity Code *The scientific story of the origin and evolution of our universe is much like a collection of the brittle scrolls of some ancient philosopher. We have mere fragments, enough to be sure that this is the one great poem of the universe, but tantalisingly incomplete. In Genesis, Guido Tonelli guides us expertly through what we know, what we don't know, and what we can only guess. You will find poetry here, and a strong sense of wonder and awe -- Jim Baggott, author * The Quantum Story *Guido Tonelli tells the compelling, astonishing and profoundly beautiful story of creation according to modern science; but just like the Book of Genesis itself, this is also a story of the future - for it is science that enables our modern world and ensures the future of our species -- Ian Shipsey, head of particle physics at the University of OxfordA wonderful scientific narrative * Corriere della Sera *An exquisite tale * La Repubblica *Spellbinding ... For Tonelli, everything in the evolution of the Universe, culture and the human condition follows from the need to understand our origins. Stories allow us to make sense of the void from which all things began. It is fitting that his own story is complex, mysterious and, at times, even messy ? a bit like the Universe itself -- Andrea Taroni * Nature *

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Book SynopsisFeaturing more than 200 intriguing images taken by space probes travelling billions of kilometres from Earth, The Solar System is an exhilarating exploration of the mysteries of our local planetary space. Within the span of a human lifetime, our spacecraft have visited all eight planets of the Solar System, together with several dwarf planets, asteroids and comets. We have mapped the surface of Mercury and Venus in exquisite detail, landed rovers on Mars, placed orbiters around Jupiter and Saturn, and parachuted to the surface of Titan. Our emissaries have visited icy worlds five billion kilometres from home and continued onwards to reach interstellar space. The pictures and science returned by these intrepid travellers have transformed our understanding of the Solar System in which we live.Table of ContentsContents includes: Introduction THE SUN Contains most of the Solar System’s mass MERCURY AND VENUS Closest planets to the Sun Impact craters and ridges on Mercury’s surface Venus is hottest planet, with numerous volcanoes EARTH AND MOON The only planet where life is know to exist Only planet with plate tectonics Asteroids MARS Iron oxide in the soil gives it a red appearance Atmosphere mainly carbon dioxide Surface volcanoes Rift valleys Two satellites: Deimos and Phobos JUPITER AND ITS MOONS 2.5 times the mass of all other planets combined 79 satellites, including: Ganymede, Callisto, Io and Europa Great Red Spot Cloud bands SATURN AND ITS MOONS Ring system 82 confirmed satellites, including Titan (second-largest moon in Solar System) and Enceladus URANUS AND NEPTUNE Uranus has 27 known satellites, including: Titania, Oberon, Umbriel, Ariel, and Miranda Neptune has 14 satellites: The largest, Triton, is geologically active, with geysers of liquid nitrogen Neptune trojans MINOR PLANETS, ASTEROIDS AND COMETS Dwarf planets – Pluto, Ceres, Eris, Makemake and Haumea Asteriod belt Kuiper belt Centaurs Comets Scattered disc Index

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Book SynopsisThe revised and updated 2nd edition of this established textbook provides a self-contained introduction to the general theory of relativity, describing not only the physical principles and applications of the theory, but also the mathematics needed, in particular the calculus of differential forms.Updated throughout, the book contains more detailed explanations and extended discussions of several conceptual points, and strengthened mathematical deductions where required. It includes examples of work conducted in the ten years since the first edition of the book was published, for example the pedagogically helpful concept of a "river of space" and a more detailed discussion of how far the principle of relativity is contained in the general theory of relativity. Also presented is a discussion of the concept of the 'gravitational field' in Einstein's theory, and some new material concerning the 'twin paradox' in the theory of relativity. Finally, the book contains a new section about gravitational waves, exploring the dramatic progress in this field following the LIGO observations. Based on a long-established masters course, the book serves advanced undergraduate and graduate level students, and also provides a useful reference for researchers.Table of ContentsNewton’s law of universal gravitation.- The force law of gravitation.- Newton’s law of gravitation in local form.- Tidal forces.- The principle of equivalence.- The general principle of relativity.- The covariance principle.- Mach’s principle.- The special theory of relativity.- Coordinate systems and Minkowski diagrams.- Synchronization of clocks.- The Doppler effect.- Relativistic time-dilation.- The relativity of simultaneity.- The Lorentz contraction.- The Lorentz transformation.- The Lorentz invariant interval.- The twin paradox.- Hyperbolic motion.- Energy and mass.- Relativistic increase of mass.- Tachyons.- Magnetism as a relativistic second order effect.- Vectors, tensors and forms.- Vectors.- Four-vectors.- Tangent vector fields and coordinate vectors.- Coordinate transformations.- Structure coefficients.- Tensors.- Transformation of tensor components.- Transformation of basis 1-forms.- The metric tensor.- Forms.- Rotating and accelerated reference frames.- Rotating reference frames.- The spatial metric tensor.- Angular acceleration of the rotating frame.- Gravitational time dilation.- Path of photons emitted from the axis in a rotating frame.- The Sagnac effect.- Uniformly accelerated reference frames.- Covariant differentiation.- Differentiation of forms.- Exterior differentiation.- Covariant derivative.- The Christoffel symbols.- Geodetic curves.- The covariant Euler-Lagrange equations.- Application of the Lagrange formalism to free particles.- Equation of motion from Lagrange’s equations.- Geodesic worldliness in spacetime.- Gravitational Doppler effect.- The Koszul connection.- Connection coefficients and structure coefficients in a Riemannian (torsion free) space.- Covariant differentiation of vectors, forms and tensors.- Covariant differentiation of a vector field in an arbitrary basis.- Covariant differentiation of forms.- Generalization for tensors of higher rank.- The Cartan connection.- Curvature.- The Riemann curvature tensor.- Differential geometry of surfaces.- Surface curvature using the Cartan formalism.- The Ricci identity.- Bianchi’s 1st identity.- Bianchi’s 2nd identity.- Einstein’s field equations.- Energy-momentum conservation.- Newtonian fluid.- Perfect fluids.- Einstein’s curvature tensor.- Einstein’s field equations.- The 'geodesic postulate' as a consequence of the field equations.- The Schwarschild spacetime.- Schwarzschild’s exterior solution.- Radial free fall in Schwarzschild spacetime.- Light cones in Schwarzschild spacetime.- Analytical extension of the Schwarzschild coordinates.- Embedding of the Schwarzschild metric.- Deceleration of light.- Particle trajectories in Schwarzschild 3-space.- Motion in the equatorial plane.- Classical tests of Einstein’s general theory of relativity.- The Hafele-Keating experiment.- Mercury’s perihelion precession.- Deflection of light.- Black holes.- 'Surface gravity': gravitational acceleration on the horizon of a black hole.- Hawking radiation: radiation from a black hole.- Rotating black holes: The Kerr metric.- Zero-angular-momentum-observers.- Does the Kerr space have a horizon?.- Schwarzschild’s interior solution.- Newtonian incompressible star.- The pressure contribution to the gravitational mass of a static, spherically symmetric system.- The Tolman-Oppenheimer-Volkov equation.- An exact solution for incompressible stars – Schwarzschild’s interior solution.- Cosmology.- Comoving coordinate system.- Curvature isotropy – the Robertson-Walker metric.- Cosmic dynamics.- Hubble’s law.- Cosmological redshift of light.- Cosmic fluids.- Isotropic and homogeneous universe models.- Some cosmological models.- Radiation dominated model.- Dust dominated model.- Transition from radiation to matter dominated universe.- Friegmann-Lemaître model.- Inflationary cosmology.- Problems with the Big Bang models.- Cosmic inflation.

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Book SynopsisCosmic Roots traces the five-thousand-year conflict between science and religion — and how it has shaped our modern secular worldview.Told with rare clarity and striking insight, this fascinating and thought-provoking book focuses on the history of cosmology and its sister science astronomy. For it was discoveries within these great disciplines which first led to the conflict between science and religion. The story begins with the cosmological beliefs of the ancients — from the flat Earth models of the Sumerians and Hebrews to the Greek notion of the orbits of planets as divine circles. Topics progress from Aristotle and Ptolemy's integrated planetary models to the Sun-centered cosmologies of Copernicus, Galileo, Kepler, and the great Isaac Newton. Their combined scientific achievements stand as testimony to the power and imagination of the human mind.This meticulously researched narrative also traces the roots of Western religion, based on historical events and archeological evidence. It takes us on a captivating journey through Western religious history — from ancient paganism to the ethical monotheism of the Hebrews, Christians, and Moslems. Along the way, we follow the rise and fall of civilizations, of empires, cycles of war and peace, unification and division.The book concludes with how Darwin came up with his theory of evolution and the impact of modern physics on religious beliefs. The cumulative effect of the scientific discoveries presented in Cosmic Roots has, for better or for worse, led to the separation of science and religion we see in Western culture today.

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Book SynopsisSpace Race 2.0 is the only authoritative photographic history of the efforts of private companies—often alongside NASA—to accelerate humankind’s exploration and understanding of the final frontier. The private space sector is growing tremendously. The industry’s consensus leader, SpaceX, headed by outspoken billionaire Elon Musk, is today worth an estimated $74 billion. And SpaceX and its chief competitors, Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic, are taking on more roles—flying cargo, supplies, and astronauts to outer space. Space Race 2.0 tells their story with expertly written text by science journalist Brad Bergan and stunning photography of the spacecraft, key players, and facilities in California, Texas, and Florida. In the 1950s and ’60s, the first Space Race pitted two political ideologies against one another: either Communism or Capitalism would prove superior. UlTable of ContentsIntroduction Elon Musk, Deep Time, and the Idealized Legacy Richard Branson. Space Knight Jeff Bezos and the Empire of Dreams The Long Road to Reusability Sustainability on Cosmic Scales The Race Itself Trouble on the Moon and Mars- and Earth The Future: Conflicting Realities

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Winner of the Canopus Award for Excellence in Interstellar Writing, Long-Form Nonfiction Category""A satisfying read."---Sean Blair, BBC Sky at Night"You’d be hard pressed to find a better choice than a book covering what it would take to get man to another star system, written by one of the world’s leading scientists actively working to turn science fic­tion into science fact."---Sean CW Korsgaard, Analog"In Johnson’s vision, the possibilities are great."---Ramin Skibba, Wired"What will it take to explore a distant star within 100 years? To illuminate the momentousness (and ethics) of sending humans light-years from home, NASA scientist Les Johnson helps us digest mind-boggling numbers—the distance between stars, the energy required to travel that far—while laying out the opportunities and limits of existing technologies. Whether we get there by solar sails or ion thrusters or nuclear bombs, the advances we make in pursuit of interstellar travel will likely also change the way we live on Earth."---Fionna M. D. Samuels, Scientific American"The stars ... are notoriously far away, as the physicist and NASA technologist Les Johnson vividly emphasizes ...The nearest, Proxima Centauri, would take many millennia to reach. Some science-fiction writers, Mr. Johnson explains, have therefore imagined multigenerational “worldships”.... But what will power their vessels? The author entertainingly describes sci-fi options such as warp drives and hyperspace, as well as potentially feasible ones such as antimatter drives, and definitely possible methods such as ion drives, solar sails and nuclear-pulse propulsion, the last involving dropping a continuous series of nukes out the back of your spacecraft and riding the blast waves." * Wall Street Journal *"A sober and careful analysis of the possibility of interstellar travel, written by someone with exactly the right background."---Robert Connon Smith, The Observatory

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