Death from the Skies!: These Are the Ways the World Will End . . . by Philip Plait

A lively astronomy primer that uses cataclysmic scenarios to explain the universe’s most fascinating events.

According to astronomer Philip Plait, the universe is an apocalypse waiting to happen But how much do we really need to fear from things like black holes, gamma-ray bursts, and supernovae? And if we should be scared, is there anything we can do to save ourselves? With humor and wit, Plait details the myriad doomsday events that the cosmos could send our way to destroy our planet and life as we know it. This authoritative yet accessible study is the ultimate astronomy lesson.

Combining fascinating and often alarming scenarios that seem plucked from science fiction with the latest research and opinions, Plait illustrates why outer space is not as remote as most people think. Each chapter explores a different phenomenon, explaining it in easy-to-understand terms, and considering how life on earth and the planet itself would be affected should the event come to pass. Rather than sensationalizing the information, Plait analyzes the probability of these catastrophes occurring in our lifetimes and what we can do to stop them. With its entertaining tone and enlightening explanation of unfathomable concepts, Death from the Skies! will appeal to science buffs and beginners alike.

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Viking Adult
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ October 16, 2008
• Edition ‏ : ‎ First
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Format: Hardcover
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 336 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0670019976
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0670019977
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.01 pounds
• Reading age ‏ : ‎ 18 years and up
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.81 x 1.18 x 8.5 inches
• Condition: Used-Good

This is an Ex-library copy with minimal library stickers and stamps, wrapped in protective sleeves. Binding is sound, pages are clean, unmarked and unbent.

About the Author

Philip Plait is an astronomer, author, and widely respected science communicator known for making complex scientific ideas accessible, engaging, and entertaining. With a deep passion for astronomy and science education, Plait has dedicated his career to inspiring curiosity and critical thinking in readers of all backgrounds.

Often described as a science evangelizer, he approaches his work with humor, clarity, and infectious enthusiasm. His writing style blends solid scientific rigor with wit and storytelling, ensuring that even the most intimidating topics are not only understandable but genuinely fun.

Plait is the author of Death from the Skies!: These Are the Ways the World Will End, a lively and informative exploration of cosmic catastrophes—from asteroid impacts to gamma-ray bursts—presented in a way that is both scientifically accurate and highly entertaining. Even when writing about apocalyptic scenarios, his goal remains the same: to spark wonder, excitement, and appreciation for the universe we inhabit.

Through his books, articles, and public outreach, Philip Plait continues to play a vital role in bringing astronomy and science to a broad audience, proving that learning about the cosmos can be as thrilling as it is enlightening.

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