Cosmic Company
Cosmic Company
Is there life elsewhere in the universe? What might it be like and how will we ever find it? Cosmic Company ponders the possibility of aliens visiting the Earth, as well as what it would mean if we were to pick up a signal from the cosmos that would prove we're neither alone, nor the smartest creatures in creation. It explains why scientists think life might be plentiful on other worlds, and how we might get in touch. Containing a thorough overview of the science and technology behind the search for life, the book highlights current and future space missions and research, which are aiming to answer some of the greatest questions mankind has ever asked. This easy-to-read book, by two experienced writers of popular astronomy, is suitable for anyone who ever wondered whether there's anybody out there…
- An easy-to-read overview of the science and technology behind the search for life in the universe
- Discusses the real possibility of finding life elsewhere
- Illustrated in colour throughout
Awards
Seth Shostak is the 2004 recipient of the prestigious Klumpke-Roberts award given by the Astronomical Society of the Pacific. This award was established by astronomer Dorothea Klumpke-Roberts, and recognizes outstanding contributions to the public understanding and appreciation of astronomy.
Reviews & endorsements
'… it's likely to become a classic on the subject, and is entertaining and informative enough for anyone to read with pleasure … the illustrations are particularly good - characterful, informative, and sometimes laugh-out-loud funny. High recommended.' Focus
'The copious, full colour illustrations are fun … ranging from fine astronomical photographs to whimsical portraits of imaginary aliens … This would be a good read for an enquiring 10 or 12 year old, or for an adult who wants a quick and accessible primer into the world of SETI research.' Astronomy Now
'… it is clearly written and the material is accurate and jargon-free … there are many handsome colour illustrations … overall, I enjoyed reading this short book. It should give the general reader a basic insight into SETI, how it is done, and how important it is to do it.' The Observatory
'Cosmic Company is a concise and up-to-date account of the aims, hopes, problems and challenges that arise in the search for intelligent life beyond Earth.' Astronomy and Space
'The copious, full-colour illustrations are fun, though, ranging from fine astronomical photographs to whimsical portraits of imaginary aliens. … This would be a good read for an enquiring 10 or 12 year old, or for an adult who wants a quick and accessible primer into the world of SETI research.' Astronomy Now
Product details
No date availableHardback
9780521822336
168 pages
255 × 196 × 18 mm
0.654kg
18 b/w illus. 97 colour illus.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- 1. Habitats for life
- 2. What might the aliens be like
- 3. Intelligent life
- 4. Visitors from afar
- 5. How might we get in touch?
- 6. The Drake Equation
- 7. The future.
