Bad Astronomy

Misconceptions and Misuses Revealed, from Astrology to the Moon Landing "Hoax"

By: Philip Plait

Narrated by: Kevin Scullin

Dr. Philip C. Plait sets the record straight on many modern hoaxes and myths. Appalled that millions of Americans don't believe in the moon landing, or that an egg stands on its end only on the vernal equinox, Plait hilariously spills the truth and informs us of scientific inaccuracies in our everyday vernacular.

©2002 Philip Plait (P)2010 Audible, Inc.

Critic reviews

"Plait succeeds brilliantly because his clear and understandable explanations are convincing and honest." (Library Journal)

Great read, even if you're familiar with the topic

I thought I would already know most of the "bad astronomy," but I was surprised by how much I didn't know. but either way, this book was entertaining and informative in general.

The science explained clearly

Great details that are easy to understand. He refers back to other parts to help the reader review prior information if forgotten. The humor was great too!

fun commentary and explanation

as a nonastronomer i found myself to be convinced of several of the concepts debunked in this, but the author’s understanding of how this misinformation is spread and follow up on it makes even the most misinformed reader feel okay about that and pleased to have learned more.
also, deeply love when academics point blank state something is “wrong,” you know that someone has gotten into a fist fight over it

Good, but not great

This book promises quite a lot in the subtitle. I must admit, I expected a deep dive into the science - but this was not quite as deep as I had expected.

The author fails to provide an overarching narrative other than 'science good, pseudoscience bad' - all well and good, but I suspect that very few believers in garbage are going to actually listen to reality.

Interesting but disjointed.

Must listen for everyone!

Fantastic book! It was really fun to listen to this in 2023 and see scientific progress and discoveries since this book was published!

6 stars for the narrator! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐