The Meteorites: Encounters with Outer Space and Deep Time

Meteorites connect us with the vastness of the universe, revealing extraordinary scientific insights and the stories of fallen meteorites and the lives they've touched. Helen Gordon explores the fascinating world of meteorites, from collectors to kings, scientists to farmers, and meteorite hunting across rooftops.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 06 February 2025
Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

The Meteorites: A Small Epiphany about Our Place in the Universe
The Meteorites, a captivating book by Helen Gordon, delves into the fascinating world of fallen meteorites and their profound impact on our existence. With stunning reviews from The Sunday Times, Noreen Masud, and Mark Haddon, the book explores the mysteries and scientific insights hidden within these mysterious, irregular rocks.

From the comfort of our own windows, we can gaze up at the stars and distant planets, feeling a sense of awe and wonder at the vastness of the universe. Yet, meteorites, with their irregular shapes and sometimes immense value, connect us to this vastness in a unique way. They may have brought the first life to our planet and continue to reveal extraordinary scientific insights today.

In The Meteorites, Gordon takes us on a journey to discover the stories of fallen meteorites and the lives they have touched. She meets collectors, kings, scientists, and farmers, and learns about the fragility of life on Earth through the objects that move through space.

One of the most fascinating aspects of meteorites is their ability to reveal the history of our planet. By studying the composition of meteorites, scientists can trace the evolution of our solar system and the formation of our planet. Meteorites have been found on every continent and in every ocean, and they provide a snapshot of the conditions that existed on Earth billions of years ago.

Meteorites have also been used in the creation of art and jewelry. The unique patterns and colors of meteorites make them a popular choice for collectors and artists alike. Some meteorites are so rare and valuable that they can fetch millions of dollars at auction.

However, meteorites can also be dangerous. When a meteorite falls to Earth, it can cause significant damage to buildings and infrastructure. In 2013, a meteorite struck a house in Chelyabinsk, Russia, causing widespread damage and injuries.

Despite these risks, meteorites continue to fascinate and inspire us. Gordon's book provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the world of meteorites, and it will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the universe and the incredible objects that inhabit it.

In conclusion, The Meteorites by Helen Gordon is a captivating book that explores the fascinating world of fallen meteorites and their profound impact on our existence. With stunning reviews from The Sunday Times, Noreen Masud, and Mark Haddon, the book provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the mysteries and scientific insights hidden within these mysterious, irregular rocks. Whether you are a collector, scientist, or simply someone who loves the wonders of the universe, The Meteorites is a must-read.

Weight: 486g
Dimension: 240 x 162 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800815346
Edition number: Main