Under Alien Skies: A Sightseer's Guide to the Universe

Astronomer and science communicator Philip Plait takes readers on a lively, immersive adventure through the cosmos, drawing on the latest scientific research to transport them to ten spectacular sites, from our own familiar Moon to the outer reaches of our solar system and far beyond.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 02 June 2023
Publisher: WW Norton & Co

How would Saturn's rings look from a spaceship sailing just above them?

From a spaceship sailing just above Saturn's rings, the rings would appear as a stunning, intricate masterpiece of shimmering bands and particles. The rings would stretch out in all directions, creating a breathtaking panorama that would be both awe-inspiring and humbling. The spaceship would glide effortlessly through the rings, feeling the gentle gravitational pull of Saturn as it orbited the planet. The rings would cast a ethereal glow on the surrounding space, creating a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere. The spaceship's instruments would capture the intricate details of the rings, revealing their composition, structure, and the patterns formed by the countless particles that make up the rings. Overall, it would be an unforgettable experience to witness Saturn's rings from a spaceship, a glimpse into the vastness and beauty of the universe.

If you were falling into a black hole, what's the last thing you'd see before your spaghettification?

As one falls into a black hole, the overwhelming gravitational force would compress and stretch space-time to an unimaginable degree. The last thing one would likely witness before being completely spaghettified is a distorted and warped view of the surrounding space. The colors would become vibrant and surreal, as the laws of physics are broken and stretched beyond their limits. The light would be bent and twisted, creating a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns that would seem to stretch on forever. The sense of time would become distorted, as one would experience an eternity of compression and stretching before being ripped apart into infinitely small particles. The experience would be both terrifying and awe-inspiring, as one witnesses the sheer power and magnificence of the black hole.

What would it be like to visit the faraway places we currently experience only through high-powered telescopes and robotic emissaries?

Imagine being able to travel to distant galaxies, planets, and stars, without the limitations of time and distance. With the advancements in technology and space exploration, we are closer than ever to achieving this dream. High-powered telescopes and robotic emissaries have allowed us to explore the cosmos in unprecedented detail, but it is not the same as experiencing it firsthand. Visiting these faraway places would be a truly transformative experience, allowing us to witness the beauty and wonder of the universe in person. We would be able to observe the intricate details of distant galaxies, witness the birth and death of stars, and explore the vastness of space in a way that is impossible through remote sensing. It would be a journey of discovery, exploration, and awe, and it would inspire us to continue pushing the boundaries of what we know and what we can achieve.

Faster-than-light travel may never be invented, but we can still take the scenic route through the universe with renowned astronomer and science communicator Philip Plait.

While faster-than-light travel may remain a theoretical concept, we can still embark on a journey through the universe with the help of renowned astronomer and science communicator Philip Plait. Plait's books, documentaries, and public appearances have captivated audiences around the world, and his passion for astronomy and science is infectious. Through his engaging and informative storytelling, Plait takes us on a tour of the cosmos, exploring the latest scientific discoveries, the wonders of space, and the mysteries of the universe. Whether we are interested in the history of astronomy, the physics of black holes, or the search for extraterrestrial life, Plait has a wealth of knowledge and insights to share. His books, such as "Bad Astronomy" and "Death From the Skies," have become classics in the field, and his documentaries, such as "A Brief History of Time" and "Planet Earth: The Special Edition," have been broadcast on television and streaming platforms to millions of people. Plait's ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging is a testament to his talent as a science communicator. He has a gift for explaining complex ideas in simple terms, making them accessible to a wide audience. His enthusiasm for the subject is contagious, and his passion for sharing his knowledge with others is evident in everything he does. In conclusion, while faster-than-light travel may never be invented, we can still take the scenic route through the universe with the help of renowned astronomer and science communicator Philip Plait. Plait's books, documentaries, and public appearances have inspired countless people to explore the wonders of the universe, and his passion for astronomy and science is a shining example of the power of education and communication. Whether we are interested in the latest scientific discoveries or simply want to learn more about the universe, Plait has the knowledge and expertise to guide us on our journey.

Weight: 550g
Dimension: 162 x 237 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780393867305