Death from the Skies: The Science of the End of the World

At first, the reader of this book may get the impression that the Universe is just waiting for its apocalypse. But should we really be afraid of black holes, gamma-ray bursts, and supernovae? And if there are reasons for concern, can we do anything to save ourselves? Witty and entertaining, the renowned astrophysicist discusses the countless scenarios of apocalypse that the cosmos can unleash upon us. Offering the reader captivating and alarming plots, as if borrowed from science fiction, Philip Plait accompanies them with comments on how they could affect life on Earth and the Universe itself if they were to come true. However, the author does not aim to shock the reader with sensational information: by analyzing a given probable scenario, he demonstrates how to prevent it. This impeccably scientific yet accessible investigation for the general reader is a wonderful lesson in astronomy for newcomers and a true pleasure for seasoned science enthusiasts.