Space on Earth: Saving Our World By Seeking Others

by Charles S. Cockell

Sir Arthur Clarke Award Winner Many environmentalists think going into space detracts from solving problems on Earth. Most space explorers feel environmentalism hampers their exploration of space. Leading astro-biologist Prof. Cockell argues that environmentalism and space exploration have one and the same objective, to ensure humanity has a home.

Genres: Science

200 pages, Hardcover

First published November 28, 2006

About the author

Charles Cockell is Professor of Astrobiology at the University of Edinburgh. His academic interests encompass life in extreme environments, the habitability of extraterrestrial environments and the human exploration and settlement of space. He has also written on the subject of extraterrestrial liberty.

He is author of scientific papers and books, including the undergraduate-level textbook 'Astrobiology' (Wiley) and numerous popular science books.

Reviews

[Khang Diep · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is perfect for the people who care about the Earth but also adore space exploration. Environmentalism and space settlement are not mutually exclusive. In fact, the two disciplines rely on each other to succeed. It's such a shame if we choose to do one thing and neglect the other. Earth could be the oasis for a space-faring civilization.

[H.S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I took Prof. Cockell's astrobiology class last year and enjoyed it a great deal. I finally found time to read his book, SPACE ON EARTH. It was a small, but very informative read. It makes a great case for why we need to start paying more attention to Earth. It is inevitable that humans will need to one day move away from Earth, but the first step is to help preserve as much of it as we can. What we learn about Earth can help us survive in space. Although more information has been discovered since the publishing of this book, it is still right on target.