Bad Astronomy: Misconceptions and Misuses Revealed, from Astrology to the Moon Landing 'Hoax'

The first half of this book reads as a basic course in Astronomy, reviewing everything from the moon’s phases and the seasons to why the sky is blue. I considered myself educated in the subject before reading Bad Astronomy, but was surprised (embarrassed) by how much I either didn’t know or knew wrong. For the first half alone, I highly recommend this book.

The second half focuses on debunking rather strange claims about Astronomy and science in general. For a lesson in skepticism, I approve, but I can’t say exactly what I got out of it. I already understood that the moon landing was not a hoax and that biblical claims don’t jive with research. If you are on the fence on these subjects or want to debate the crackpot in your life, then all the more reason you should check out Bad Astronomy.

Phil Plait, the "Bad Astronomer" does a fantastic job of explaining some common misconceptions in the field of astronomy. A must read if you're interested at all in astronomy.

I've only had 1 Astronomy course in my lifetime, but even a modest knowledge of science and astronomy in general will leave you bored with the basic subject matter. I kept fast forwarding through the chapter to come up with something to actually learn. However, if you have no clue as to why the sky is blue, or think that eggs stand up only on the equinox - this book is for you.

I think Philip has done a diservice with the title. It's not just about astronomy! Debunking commonly held misconceptions is intelligently performed and delightfully achieved. It's a great listen on my audible ipod when the family want to make television noises and I can't escape. One by one my urban myth misunderstandings were corrected and replanted. Well done for a geat listen and an academic approach that challenges. Being a recent convert from a religion to scepticism this book happily satisfied my itches for information in th real world

Philip Plait does a very educational, entertaining and exhaustive job at clearing up many misconceptions making it understandable for the general public. Kevin Scullin’s narration is excellent.

The narration is jarring. Kevin Scullin has a pleasant voice, but it seemed like he was reading the material for the first time, in one take. His cadence is choppy and it makes the material difficult to listen to. Dr. Plait's book is being done a disservice in this format.

my 3 word summary: people believe that?

It was eye opening. I had no idea how far people's marbles were rolling.

I laughed a lot

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Absolutely loved this book. So many simple, great space and science facts, fiction, and jokes.
As someone with a child, i will cherish the lessons learned. I have already begun giving lessons to my family, friends, and child.
Hopefully we get Mr. Plaits other book, "Death from the skies" soon.

I was pleasantly surprised by how funny this book was. I enjoyed it and learned several things that I had believed heretofor were old wives tales and now I may not be smart but I am not as ill informed as I was.

Without reservation. If you've always wanted to counter those Pseudo-scientific followers or espouse-rs, this is the ammo box of clear thinking and rational examples of why most of what "everybody knows" is wrong.

The articles on the Moon and common misconceptions is enough to be a small book worthy of cocktail party chatter alone. The rest is simply brilliant.

He presents this with a "Dicovery Channel" professionalism, delivery, and tone of voice that allows one to lose themselves in the narrative- the sign of a great voice actor. You believe he is the author, due to his immersion and conviction in the role.

Several laugh out loud moments- but many more "Ah-Ha!" moments. At least one "Eureka!" moment guaranteed per listener.

I cannot recommend the listen highly enough. It should be required at the elementary, high school, and college levels. And again 5 years after entering the marketplace. :)