Extraterrestrial Intelligence
Extraterrestrial Intelligence
Storm Dunlop
Out of Print
If extraterrestrial intelligence exists, then positive detection of it would be the greatest scientific discovery of all time. By what criteria should we judge if we are alone in the cosmos, and how should we set about detecting extraterrestrials? Jean Heidmann and Strom Dunlop answers these questions in this engaging discussion of extraterrestrial intelligence. The authors shows how planets fit into the hierarchy of the Universe, and discuss prebiotic stages of life, and the emergence of primitive biological life in the solar system. From this base the entire subject of extraterrestrials is explained: techniques and the results of projects, the expansion of searches for extraterrestrials, the habitable zones in our universe, and what might happen if actual contact takes place. This is a lively account, written at a level suitable for general readership.
- Details the quest for extraterrestrial life, from organic molecules in comets, to bacteria on Mars, to possible civilizations situated in other star systems
- A serious, though lively account of the search for life in the cosmos, by a professional in the field
- Positive detection would be the greatest scientific discovery of all time
Reviews & endorsements
"...the reader will learn a lot about SETI...by the end of the book...a good book for anyone looking for a serious overview of SETI." SpaceViews
"Extraterrestrial Intelligence is a primer for our time." Astronomy
"...perfect for newcomers to the topic. A healthy dose of science is added to elevate this beyond the pop realm." The Bookwatch
"...engaging, galaxy-sweeping survey of the past, present, and future of this longshot but exciting field of research...includes many fascinating details from the various space probes that have examined Haley's comet, panets and moons in our solar system, and other phenomena in our galaxy...is a must read for anyone with a serious interest in up-to-date coverage of SETI and the people who are making it happen." Rapport
"This book is a must read for those pondering the true meaning behind the claim of possible micro-fossils on Mars." Space News Book Reviews
"Heidmann's obvious joy in raw speculation--all of it grounded in real science--is contagious." Amazon.com
Product details
August 1995Hardback
9780521453400
268 pages
236 × 158 × 22 mm
0.55kg
4 b/w illus.
Unavailable - out of print
Table of Contents
- Part I. The Bioastronomical Project:
- 1. The cosmic stage
- 2. The organic stage
- 3. The prebiotic stage
- 4. The primitive biological stage
- Part II. Extreterrestrials:
- 5. Intelligence
- 6. The SETI pioneers
- 7. Why use radio waves?
- 8. NASA takes up the challenge
- 9. False alarms
- 10. The expansion of SETI
- 11. Habitable zones in the universe
- 12. The day we make contact
- Epilogue.
