The Search for Life on Other Planets

Description

Does life exist on other planets? This topical book presents the scientific basis for thinking there may be life elsewhere in the Universe. It is the first to cover the entire breadth of recent exciting discoveries, including the discovery of planets around other stars and the possibility of fossil life in meteorites from Mars. Suitable for the general reader, this authoritative book avoids technical jargon and is well illustrated throughout. It covers all the major topics, including the origin and early history of life on Earth, the environmental conditions necessary for life to exist, the possibility that life might exist elsewhere in our Solar System, the occurrence of planets around other stars and their habitability, and the possibility of intelligent extraterrestrial life. For all those interested in understanding the scientific evidence for and likelihood of extraterrestrial life, this is the most comprehensive and readable book to date.

'I will provide the bottom line up-front: basically, this book is a must have. It is inexpensive, timely and in a class of one - currently there are no alternative texts which cover the same ground in such detail ... this book is highly recommended and one you should buy for your own personal collection.' Ian P. Wright, Astronomy and Geophysics 'Prof. Jakosky ... is very well qualified to give this broad overview, and he succeeds admirably. His writing style is down-to-earth and crystal clear ... Moreover, Jakosky is open-minded and liberal in presenting his views ... I thoughly recommend this as absorbing bedtime reading to anyone interested in the origins and significance of our place in the universe.' Edward Hanna, Journal of BAA ' ... the book is well written, informative and authoritative.' Earth Space Review 'Javosky's book on the subject is a welcome and timely addition to the library of research reviews.' A. D. Andrews, Irish Astronomical Journal