Synopses & Reviews
The question of whether or not we are alone in the universe has piqued the curiosity of humankind from ancient to modern times. If extraterrestrial intelligence exists, then positive detection of it would be the greatest scientific discovery of all time. By what criteria should we judge if we are alone in the cosmos, and how should we set about detecting extraterrestrials? Jean Heidmann answers these questions in his engaging discussion of extraterrestrial intelligence. The author shows how planets fit into the hierarchy of the universe, and discusses prebiotic stages of life, and the emergence of primitive biological life in the solar system. From this base the entire subject of extraterrestrials is explained: techniques for searching and the results of current projects (including the Search for Extra Terrestrial Intelligence (SETI) project); the expansion of searches for extraterrestrials; the habitable zones in our universe; and what might happen if actual contact takes place. This lively account is written for a general readership with interest in this topic. Jean Heidmann is the author of Cosmic Odessey (CUP, 1989).
Review
"Aimed at the general public, it succinctly covers all the important aspects of the field...Heidmann writes in a lucid, agreeable personal style." Nature
Review
'\"...the reader will learn a lot about SETI...by the end of the book...a good book for anyone looking for a serious overview of SETI.\" SpaceViews\"Extraterrestrial Intelligence is a primer for our time.\" Astronomy\"...perfect for newcomers to the topic. A healthy dose of science is added to elevate this beyond the pop realm.\" The Bookwatch\"...engaging, galaxy-sweeping survey of the past, present, and future of this longshot but exciting field of research...includes many fascinating details from the various space probes that have examined Haley\'s comet, panets and moons in our solar system, and other phenomena in our galaxy...is a must read for anyone with a serious interest in up-to-date coverage of SETI and the people who are making it happen.\" Rapport\"This book is a must read for those pondering the true meaning behind the claim of possible micro-fossils on Mars.\" Space News Book Reviews\"Heidmann\'s obvious joy in raw speculation--all of it grounded in real science--is contagious.\" Amazon.com'
Synopsis
By what criteria should we judge whether we are alone in the cosmos, and how should we set about detecting extraterrestrials? Jean Heidmann answers these questions in this engaging discussion of extraterrestrial intelligence. Using clear explanations, including new and updated information, he covers the entire subject of extraterrestrial intelligence including the SETI project and what might happen if actual contact takes place.
Synopsis
A consideration of the criteria by which we should judge whether we are alone in the cosmos, and how should we set about detecting extraterrestrials.
Synopsis
'If extraterrestrial intelligence exists, then positive detection of it would be the greatest scientific discovery of all time. This book explains our current position and techniques, from both the technological communications systems available and the biological possibilities of our solar system.\n
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Table of Contents
Preface; Acknowledgements; Part I. The Bioastronomical Prospect: 1. The cosmic stage; 2. The organic stage; 3. The prebiotic stage; 4. The primitive biological stage; Part II. Extraterrestrials: 5. Intelligence; 6. The SETI Pioneers; 7. Why use radio waves?; 8. NASA takes up the challenge; 9. False alarms; 10. The expansion of SETI; 11. Habitable zones in the universe; 12. The day we make contact; 13. The new world of SETI; 14. SETI in the twenty-first century; 15. Epilogue; Bibliography; Index.