Amazing Worlds of Science Fiction and Science Fact [Hardcover]

With a stellar cast of scientists and science fictionists alike, a vivid exploration of realities behind imaginary planets.
 
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to watch a double sunset on Tatooine, stand among the sand dunes of Arrakis, or gaze at the gas-giant planet Polyphemus from the moon Pandora? InAmazing Worlds of Science Fiction and Science Fact, Keith Cooper explores the fictional planets from films such asStar Wars,Dune, andAvatar, and discusses how realistic they are based on our current scientific understanding and astronomical observations. The real exoplanets astronomers are now discovering are truly stranger than fiction, as the author shows. Featuring insights from over a dozen scientists and award-winning science-fiction authors, including Charlie Jane Anders, Stephen Baxter, and Alastair Reynolds,Amazing Worlds of Science Fiction and Science Factis perfect for readers of popular science and fans of science fiction.Keith Cooperis a science journalist who has written forNew Scientist,Physics World,Sky & Telescope, Space.com, andSupercluster, among others. He has a degree in physics with astrophysics from the University of Manchester and has editedAstronomy Nowmagazine for nearly twenty years. His books includeThe Contact Paradox.