What draws us to the night sky and how can we make sense of all that lies there? In this unique synthesis of science and culture, former astrophysicist and writer Joanne Baker charts the global history of humanity''s relationship with the cosmos. Starting with the nearby Moon before venturing through the solar system to the stars and beyond, she unveils a rich mosaic of stories and research that illuminate the significance of celestial bodies in our everyday lives. It is a history that transcends borders and cultural traditions, taking us from Mesopotamian moon worship to the science fiction of H. G. Wells and the discovery of black holes. Driven by a personal quest to understand the universe as more than just an abstract mathematical realm, Baker also includesher own sparkling first-hand experiences - from watching a total solar eclipse in Idaho to visiting an ancient observatory in Samarkand. Starwatchers invites readers on an extraordinary journey through space that interrogates the boundaries of our earthly existence and encourages us to reflect on how we project meaning onto the skies.

Autorentext

Joanne Baker

Klappentext

What draws us to the heavens and how can we make sense of all that lies there? Is it the terror and beauty of the unknown, the strange familiarity of distant realms, or the mathematical secrets guarded by a select few? Joanne Baker, driven by a lifelong quest, grapples with these questions, inviting readers to confront the universe's dual nature - both terrifying and enchanting.

As we traverse the celestial landscape, starting from the Moon and venturing through the solar system, this unique synthesis of science, culture and personal reflection takes readers on an extraordinary journey through space and delves into the heart of our fascination with the cosmos. It not only charts the evolution of humanity's cosmic perceptions but also sheds light on diverse cultural perspectives - drawing parallels between the solitude of stargazing on a remote mountain and the contemplative practices of Tibetan monks and spiritual Hawaiians. Beyond the rich astronomical histories which sweep across the continents, Baker includes her own sparkling first-hand experiences - from watching a total solar eclipse in Idaho to visiting ancient observatories in Samarkand and Poland - unveiling a mosaic of stories and research that transcend borders and traditions.

Vast and captivating, A Cultural History of Our Relationship with the Cosmos invites us on an unforgettable journey through space that interrogates the boundaries of our earthly existence.