Review of “Life in Space – Astrobiology for non-scientists”

Drs. Wandel and Gale have put together a great deal of good work to produce a new very impressive book on the vast subject of Life Beyond Earth.Their ambitious "Life in Space" is both broader and deeper than any previous efforts on this topic of great popular interest.Most of the writings on extraterrestrial life are long on speculation and ungrounded philosophizing.In refreshing contrast, "Life in Space" brings all the solid scientific foundations needed to understand The Science of Astrobiology.In exploring this very rich subject, the authors do not assume any previous scientific expertise on the part of their readers.Instead, they spell out all of the basic scientific elements clearly as they come up.All of the relevant background is patiently included, complete with References and a very useful Index.For example, Chs. 5-6 give a basic primer to the physics and astronomy needed for astrobiology, such as temperature, energy and radiation, astronomical distances and the cosmic distance ladder, masses and sizes of stars and planets.In fact, I would recommend reading this book to any educated lay person who is interested in learning more general science, from astronomy, to planetary science, to biochemistry, and lots in between.The book is original in presenting the development of the scientific method from ancient times to empirical and quantitative observation (Ch.3) as used in astrobiology (Ch.4).Special attention is given to "Life as we don't know it" (Ch18).One or other of the above subjects appears in other books, but not all in one place.An instructor may choose which chapters to use, from a very wide selection.To enhance the pedagogical value, interesting applications and calculations are included in many thoughtful boxed inserts.The authors make many interesting connections with the latest relevant discoveries and controversies.This book will stand as the definitive work on this entire subject, a remarkable accomplishment.It is a long book because literally nothing significant is missing.But its witty readable style does not make it feel long.After explaining what is currently known in the entire field, "Life in Space" then explores the fascinating implications of this knowledge, including the technology and ethics of space exploration (Ch.22) and communication with extra-terrestrial intelligence.(I particularly appreciated two topics particularly close to my heart from personal involvement-the discussions of the role of the revolutionary 1000-foot Arecibo radiotelescope, and the growing threat of orbital space debris)."Life in Space" goes beyond anything else that is currently out there.I had not imagined such an achievement would be possible, partly because there are few authors up to the job.Drs.Wandel and Gale have thought, and researched, deeply on these questions for most of their distinguished careers.I am so glad to have this wonderful resource to share with my colleagues, friends, and students.