The Universe: In 100 Key Discoveries

This stunning collection of cutting-edge images and concise essays surveys the key breakthroughs that have shaped our understanding of the universe around us — from the discovery of the solar system to Supermassive black holes and the remote depths of the cosmos. Beginning with the theories put forward for the origin of our universe — the Big Bang and its rivals — and ending with what the eventual fate of our cosmos might be, this overview of 100 landmark discoveries tells the story of how we have endeavoured to understand the place of our own planet in the wider universe. Among the key concepts and discoveries examined are: the origin and development of matter; the Milky Way; the Sun and our solar system; the quest for life on Mars; the mysteries of star death and extreme objects; supernovae and 'hypernovae'; Dark Energy and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. Superbly illustrated with over 300 stunning photographs, computer-generated images and illustrations which clarify even the most complex theories, this is a thought-provoking account of the scientific revelations that have shed light on our place in the universe and — perhaps the biggest question of all — if life exists anywhere else in the cosmos.