A Pale Blue Dot: A Vision of the Human Future in Space by Carl Sagan
Sagan, Carl. Pale Blue Dot: A Vision of the Human Future in Space. New York: Random House, 1994. Print. pp. 384
Sagan's great appeal as a popular-science writer, beyond his prodigious knowledge, is his optimism and sense of wonder. A visualizer and a visionary, he fires our imagination and turns science into high drama. After writing about our origins in Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors (1992), Sagan turns his attention to outer space and takes up where Cosmos left off 14 years ago.
An astonishing amount of information was amassed during that productive era, and Sagan, of course, is up on all of it. A passionate and eloquent advocate of space exploration, he believes that the urge to wander, and the need for a frontier, is intrinsic to our nature, and that this trait is linked to our survival as a species.
Throughout this beautifully illustrated, revelatory, and compelling volume, Sagan returns again and again to our need for journeys and quests as well as our unending curiosity about our place in the universe. Such philosophical musings are interwoven with precise and enthusiastic accounts of the triumphs of interplanetary exploration, from the Apollo moon landings to the spectacular findings of robotic missions, especially the Voyager spacecraft. Sagan describes one exciting discovery after another regarding the four giants--Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune--and their many moons, mysterious and exquisite rings, and volatile atmospheres. He argues, convincingly, that planetary exploration is of immense value. It not only teaches us about our celestial neighbors, but helps us understand and protect Earth. Yes, we have seemingly insurmountable problems on this pale blue dot, but we have always reached for the stars, and we mustn't stop now. Donna Seaman --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
An astonishing amount of information was amassed during that productive era, and Sagan, of course, is up on all of it. A passionate and eloquent advocate of space exploration, he believes that the urge to wander, and the need for a frontier, is intrinsic to our nature, and that this trait is linked to our survival as a species.
Throughout this beautifully illustrated, revelatory, and compelling volume, Sagan returns again and again to our need for journeys and quests as well as our unending curiosity about our place in the universe. Such philosophical musings are interwoven with precise and enthusiastic accounts of the triumphs of interplanetary exploration, from the Apollo moon landings to the spectacular findings of robotic missions, especially the Voyager spacecraft. Sagan describes one exciting discovery after another regarding the four giants--Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune--and their many moons, mysterious and exquisite rings, and volatile atmospheres. He argues, convincingly, that planetary exploration is of immense value. It not only teaches us about our celestial neighbors, but helps us understand and protect Earth. Yes, we have seemingly insurmountable problems on this pale blue dot, but we have always reached for the stars, and we mustn't stop now. Donna Seaman --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Carl Sagan: A Life
Davidson, Keay. Carl Sagan: A Life. New York: J. Wiley, c1999. Print. pp. 54o
Carl Sagan was one of the most celebrated scientists of this century-the handsome and alluring visionary who inspired a generation to look to the heavens and beyond. His life was both an intellectual feast and an emotional rollercoaster. Based on interviews with Sagan's family and friends, including his widow, Ann Druyan; his first wife, acclaimed scientist Lynn Margulis; and his three sons, as well as exclusive access to many personal papers, this highly acclaimed life story offers remarkable insight into one of the most influential, provocative, and beloved figures of our time-a complex, contradictory prophet of the Space Age.
In a superbly researched biography of one of the 20the century's most influential yet controversial scientists, Davidson (coauthor, Wrinkles in Time) leaves no doubt about where he feels his subject stands. "What is a visionary?" he asks in the closing chapter.
"Carl Sagan measured time in eons and space in light years; he maintained an interplanetary perspective." Though many of Davidson's anecdotes echo those in William Poundstone's Carl Sagan: A Life in the Cosmos, he actively guides readers to conclusions, where Poundstone merely lays out the facts. Though not avoiding Sagan's many failings as a person, Davidson never allows his readers to lose sight of the grand visions, brilliant insights and brash speculations that inspired and educated Sagan's audiences. The book is at its strongest when it shows the inner Sagan through his most influential works: the Pulitzer Prize-winning Dragons of Eden; the Emmy and Peabody Award-winning television series Cosmos; his SF novel Contact; and his scientific publications about the runaway greenhouse effect on Venus, the windblown dust responsible for "waves of darkening" on Mars and the threat of "nuclear winter" after a limited nuclear war on earth. The volume is weakest when, instead of holding Sagan responsible for his sometimes, arrogant behavior, it offers excuses from pop psychology. Though nonscientific readers may find Davidson's biography sufficient, naturally skeptical scientific readers may find its conclusions too firm for comfort. They should read Poundstone first, then turn to Davidson to complete the picture. (Sept.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
In a superbly researched biography of one of the 20the century's most influential yet controversial scientists, Davidson (coauthor, Wrinkles in Time) leaves no doubt about where he feels his subject stands. "What is a visionary?" he asks in the closing chapter.
"Carl Sagan measured time in eons and space in light years; he maintained an interplanetary perspective." Though many of Davidson's anecdotes echo those in William Poundstone's Carl Sagan: A Life in the Cosmos, he actively guides readers to conclusions, where Poundstone merely lays out the facts. Though not avoiding Sagan's many failings as a person, Davidson never allows his readers to lose sight of the grand visions, brilliant insights and brash speculations that inspired and educated Sagan's audiences. The book is at its strongest when it shows the inner Sagan through his most influential works: the Pulitzer Prize-winning Dragons of Eden; the Emmy and Peabody Award-winning television series Cosmos; his SF novel Contact; and his scientific publications about the runaway greenhouse effect on Venus, the windblown dust responsible for "waves of darkening" on Mars and the threat of "nuclear winter" after a limited nuclear war on earth. The volume is weakest when, instead of holding Sagan responsible for his sometimes, arrogant behavior, it offers excuses from pop psychology. Though nonscientific readers may find Davidson's biography sufficient, naturally skeptical scientific readers may find its conclusions too firm for comfort. They should read Poundstone first, then turn to Davidson to complete the picture. (Sept.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
A Life in the Cosmos
Poundstone, William. A Life in the Cosmos. New York: Henry Holt, c1999. Print. pp473.
The first biography of the best-known scientist of his generation and the author of the best-seller Cosmos. In this, the first full-scale examination of the life of Carl Sagan, award-winning science writer William Poundstone details the transformation of a bookish young astronomer obsessed with life on other worlds into science's first authentic media superstar.
As a fixture on television and a bestselling author, Sagan became instantly recognizable. To people around the world, he offered entrée into the mysteries of the cosmos and of science in general. To much of the scientific community,though, he was something of a pariah, a brazen publicity seeker who cared more about his image and his fortune than the advancement of science. Poundstone reveals the seldom-discussed aspects of Sagan's life, the legitimate and important work of his early scientific career, the almost obsessive capacity to take on less projects, the multiple marriages and fractured tumultuous personal life-all essential elements of this complicated and extraordinary man, truly the first and most famous scientist of the media age.
As a fixture on television and a bestselling author, Sagan became instantly recognizable. To people around the world, he offered entrée into the mysteries of the cosmos and of science in general. To much of the scientific community,though, he was something of a pariah, a brazen publicity seeker who cared more about his image and his fortune than the advancement of science. Poundstone reveals the seldom-discussed aspects of Sagan's life, the legitimate and important work of his early scientific career, the almost obsessive capacity to take on less projects, the multiple marriages and fractured tumultuous personal life-all essential elements of this complicated and extraordinary man, truly the first and most famous scientist of the media age.
The Varieties of Scientific Experience: A Personal view of the Search for God
Sagan, Carl. The Varieties of Scientific Experience: A Personal view of the Search for God. New York: Penguin Press, 2006. Print. pp. 284.
This work is a posthumous edition of noted scientist Carl Sagan's Gifford Lectures, given in 1985 at the University of Glasgow to mark the lectureship's centennial. The title, provided by his widow and longtime collaborator Ann Druyan, intends to call to mind another famous Gifford Lecture series by philosopher William James, later published as the classic The Varieties of Religious Experience. The title shift is both significant and suggestive. The lecture topics range widely over the field of religion and science; Sagan sketches the origins of modern science, the issues within the intelligent design debate, the evolutionary and organic aspects of the solar system, the myths and possibilities of extraterrestrial life, and the nature of God and human religious experience. Not unexpectedly, Sagan espouses a definite viewpoint here, with empirical science (a kind of "informed worship" for Sagan) clearly in the driver's seat. Religious perspectives ride in the back, rather than alongside in the front passenger seat helping to navigate the journey through the cosmos. But at least Sagan acknowledges both are making the same journey.
For those willing to accept Sagan's premise, this is a clear, straightforward introduction to the subject.
Summing Up: Recommended. All levels. C. S. Langton Principia College
For those willing to accept Sagan's premise, this is a clear, straightforward introduction to the subject.
Summing Up: Recommended. All levels. C. S. Langton Principia College
Billions and Billions: Thoughts on Life and Death at the Brink of the Millennium
Sagan, Carl. Billions and Billions: Thoughts on Life and Death at the Brink of the Millennium. New York: Random House, 1997. Print. pp. 241.
In this book, his last, Carl Sagan shows once again his extraordinary ability to interpret the mysteries of life and the majesty of the universe for the general reader. Brilliant, eloquent, and imbued with Sagan's uniquely childlike sense of awe, this entertaining collection of essays captures the authors spirit at its best.
In Billions and Billions Sagan applies what we know about science, mathematics, and space to everyday life, as well as to the exploration of many essential questions concerning the environment and our future. Ranging far and wide in subject matter, he takes his readers on a soaring journey, from the invention of chess to the possibility of life on Mars, from Monday Night Football to the relationship between the United States and Russia, from global warming to the abortion debate. And, on a more intimate note, we are given a rare glimpse of the author himself as he movingly describes his valiant fight for his life, his love of his family, and his personal beliefs about death and God. Throughout these essays, Sagan provides clarity and understanding for an audience eager to make sense of the world around it as it prepares for the challenges of the coming millennium, and in the process he illuminates his strongly held belief that we have the ability to change the world and our lives for the better.
Sagan has said, We make our world significant by the courage of our questions and by the depth of our answers. With this book, as in his magnificent career, he makes this world significant indeed.
In Billions and Billions Sagan applies what we know about science, mathematics, and space to everyday life, as well as to the exploration of many essential questions concerning the environment and our future. Ranging far and wide in subject matter, he takes his readers on a soaring journey, from the invention of chess to the possibility of life on Mars, from Monday Night Football to the relationship between the United States and Russia, from global warming to the abortion debate. And, on a more intimate note, we are given a rare glimpse of the author himself as he movingly describes his valiant fight for his life, his love of his family, and his personal beliefs about death and God. Throughout these essays, Sagan provides clarity and understanding for an audience eager to make sense of the world around it as it prepares for the challenges of the coming millennium, and in the process he illuminates his strongly held belief that we have the ability to change the world and our lives for the better.
Sagan has said, We make our world significant by the courage of our questions and by the depth of our answers. With this book, as in his magnificent career, he makes this world significant indeed.
Science Under Siege: Defending Science, Exposing Pseudoscience
Frazier, Kendrick. Science Under Siege: Defending Science, Exposing Pseudoscience. Amherst, N.Y.: Prometheus Books, 2009. Print. pp. 370.
For more than thirty years, The Skeptical Inquirer has steadfastly championed science and reason and been the leading voice for reliable scientific examination of the paranormal and other questionable claims popularized by the media and mass culture.
In this new collection of outstanding recent articles, editor Kendrick Frazier has selected some of the best writing on topics of current interest. Among the highlights are: "A Skeptical Look at September 11th" which prompted a drove of responses (many angry) and was selected by Richard Dawkins for the Best Science and Nature Writing of 2003. Carl Sagan's final question-and-answer piece on the topic of science and skeptical inquiry. Ann Druyan's beautifully expressed "Science, Religion, Wonder, and Awe." NASA scientist Stuart Jordan's excellent appraisal of the scientific evidence for global warming, which prompted much critical response and led to another follow-up article.
Five articles on the evolution vs. intelligent design controversy Two physicians' articles that strongly defend the value of vaccinations and critique the anti-vaccination movement Other distinguished contributors include Mario Bunge, Martin Gardner, Ray Hyman, Paul Kurtz, Chris Mooney, Joe Nickell, Stephen Pinker, and many others. This excellent collection of stimulating articles exploring science and skeptical inquiry, public controversies, and investigating pseudoscientific claims is a must for scientists, educators, skeptics, and everyone concerned about scientific literacy.
In this new collection of outstanding recent articles, editor Kendrick Frazier has selected some of the best writing on topics of current interest. Among the highlights are: "A Skeptical Look at September 11th" which prompted a drove of responses (many angry) and was selected by Richard Dawkins for the Best Science and Nature Writing of 2003. Carl Sagan's final question-and-answer piece on the topic of science and skeptical inquiry. Ann Druyan's beautifully expressed "Science, Religion, Wonder, and Awe." NASA scientist Stuart Jordan's excellent appraisal of the scientific evidence for global warming, which prompted much critical response and led to another follow-up article.
Five articles on the evolution vs. intelligent design controversy Two physicians' articles that strongly defend the value of vaccinations and critique the anti-vaccination movement Other distinguished contributors include Mario Bunge, Martin Gardner, Ray Hyman, Paul Kurtz, Chris Mooney, Joe Nickell, Stephen Pinker, and many others. This excellent collection of stimulating articles exploring science and skeptical inquiry, public controversies, and investigating pseudoscientific claims is a must for scientists, educators, skeptics, and everyone concerned about scientific literacy.
Astronomy 101: From the Sun and Moon to Wormholes and Warp Drive, Key Theories, Discoveries, and Facts about the Universe
Petersen, Carolyn Collins. Astronomy 101: From the Sun and Moon to Wormholes and Warp Drive, Key Theories, Discoveries, and Facts About the Universe. Avon, Massachusetts: Adams Media, 2013. Print. pp. 288.
Explore the curiosities of our galaxy! Too often, textbooks obscure the beauty and wonder of outer space with tedious discourse that even Galileo would oppose.
Astronomy 101 cuts out the boring details and lengthy explanations, and instead, gives you a lesson in astronomy that keeps you engaged as you discover what's hidden beyond our starry sky. From the Big Bang and nebulae to the Milky Way and Sir Isaac Newton, this celestial primer is packed with hundreds of entertaining astronomy facts, charts, and photographs you won't be able to get anywhere else.
So whether you're looking to unravel the mystery behind black holes, or just want to learn more about your favorite planets, Astronomy 101 has all the answers--even the ones you didn't know you were looking for.
Astronomy 101 cuts out the boring details and lengthy explanations, and instead, gives you a lesson in astronomy that keeps you engaged as you discover what's hidden beyond our starry sky. From the Big Bang and nebulae to the Milky Way and Sir Isaac Newton, this celestial primer is packed with hundreds of entertaining astronomy facts, charts, and photographs you won't be able to get anywhere else.
So whether you're looking to unravel the mystery behind black holes, or just want to learn more about your favorite planets, Astronomy 101 has all the answers--even the ones you didn't know you were looking for.
The New York Times Book of Physics and Astronomy: More than 100 years of covering the Expanding Universe
Dean, Cornelia. The New York Times Book of Physics and Astronomy: More than 100 years of covering the Expanding Universe. New York: Sterling, 2013. Print. pp. 557.
"The best on physics and astronomy from The New York Times! The newspaper of record has always prided itself on its coverage of physics and astronomy, realms that have dominated science and the popular imagination like few others, and these 125 articles from its archives feature such esteemed names as Malcolm W. Browne, James Glanz, George Johnson, William L. Laurence, Dennis Overbye, Walter Sullivan, and more. From the discovery of distant galaxies and black holes to the tiny interstices of the atom, these articles cover more than 100 years of breakthroughs, discoveries, setbacks, and mysteries solved and unsolved"-- Provided by publisher.
Starfinder: The Complete Beginner's Guide to the Night Sky
Scott, Carole. Starfinder: The Complete Beginner’s Guide to the Night Sky. New York: Dorling Kindersley Publishing, 2013. Print. pp. 124.
"Starfinder is the ideal introduction to the night sky and how to observe it. It explains all you need to know about the Solar System and the rest of the Universe and shows you how to find and recognize objects such as stars and planets. To help you build your astronomy skills, it includes a month-by-month observation guide, a detailed directory of all 88 constellations, and a planisphere that reveals the night sky at any time of the year. The planisphere is a circular map of the stars with a rotating window on top. By turning the window, it can be set to show the stars as they will appear aat a particular time on any chosen night of the year."--Cover, p. [4]