The Alien Perspective - by David Whitehouse (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

'Often-complex ideas are explained with clarity and precision, but this is clearly a passion project for the author, and the book soars where he deploys more poetic language, as when musing on the deeper themes that arise from his central question. ... If you've ever looked up at the sky and pondered on the big questions of life in the Universe, this is essential reading.' BBC Sky at Night magazine

Astronomer and science writer David Whitehouse takes us on a journey through the evolving cosmos as he considers humankind's place in the universe - and how our survival depends on otherworldly perspectives.

From the Earth to the depths of outer space, this inspiring book shows how human evolution has been intertwined with the workings of the cosmos from the very beginning, and what the far-distant future may hold, both for the universe and for ourselves.

Given enough time, Whitehouse contends, we must communicate with intelligent aliens whose divergent perspective will transform our understanding of the universe. First contact may even come sooner than we think. We have already transmitted signals towards promising exoplanets. If, say, Gliese 581d harbours life, the return signal could reach us in 2051.

Drawing the thread of human consciousness from the cave to the cosmos, the acclaimed author of Apollo 11: The Inside Story charts our future journey to the end of space and time and considers whether something of humanity could remain at the end of it all.

Review Quotes

'Expert speculation on the next 50 years of space travel. Former BBC science correspondent Whitehouse... delivers a skillful history of space exploration, paying special attention to the moon and emphasizing problems solved during Apollo and those that still require solutions in order to establish a permanent base. By 2069, he predicts that an international moon base will be up and running.'Kirkus (Starred Review) on Space 2069

'Science journalist Whitehouse forecasts what awaits the American space program over the next 50 years in this vivid outing... Whitehouse takes care to show that the American space program still faces plenty of issues, from the psychological stresses of space travel, to the competition presented by China's program... Space fans will find plenty to spark their imaginations.' Library Journal on Space 2069

'It is rare to read something that so closely mixes science fiction with reality, but Space 2069 does just that ... [It's] an intelligent portrait of where we may be in the next half-century. - BBC Sky at Night on Space 2069

'One of the best books ever written about the lunar landing ... absolutely brilliant.' -- Engineering and Technology Magazine on Apollo 11

'Terrific and enthralling.' -- New Scientist on Apollo 11

About the Author

David Whitehouse is a former BBC science correspondent and science editor, and the author of several books, including most recently Apollo 11: The Inside Story and Space 2069. He has a doctorate from the Jodrell Bank Radio Observatory and Asteroid 4036 is named after him. He is a regular broadcaster and contributor to newspapers and magazines.