Secrets of the Universe: How We Discovered the Cosmos
by Paul Murdin. University of Chicago Press, 2009
Astronomer Paul Murdin traces the history of astronomical discoveries—from the shape of Earth to the cosmic microwave background to the origin of the elements. Pictured at the right is the N49 supernova remnant in the Large Magellanic Cloud. Supernovae play a key role in distributing the elements made in stars.
A Year on the Wing: Four Seasons in a Life with Birds
by Tim Dee. Free Press, 2009
In this lyrical memoir, radio producer and writer Tim Dee draws on 40 years of avian observation to compose an account of a year in the lives of birds. Along the way he explores humanity’s fascination with these creatures and their journeys on the wing.
This Will Change Everything: Ideas That Will Shape the Future
edited by John Brockman. Harper Perennial, 2009
John Brockman, literary agent and founder of the online science salon Edge.org, has rounded up more than 150 luminaries to reflect on ideas that are poised to change the world in their lifetimes. Among the contributors are Nobel laureate physicist Frank Wilczek on the quantum world, biologist Paul Ewald on infectious disease and psychologist Sherry Turkle on robot companions.
Department of Mad Scientists: How DARPA Is Remaking Our World, from the Internet to Artificial Limbs
by Michael Belfiore. Smithsonian, 2009
The Lives of the Brain: Human Evolution and the Organ of Mind
by John S. Allen. Belknap Press, 2009
