Space at the Speed of Light

The History of 14 Billion Years for People Short on Time

De: Becky Smethurst

Narrado por: Becky Smethurst

From the big bang to black holes, this fast-paced tour of time and space for the astro-curious unlocks the science of the stars to reveal fascinating theories, surprising discoveries, and ongoing mysteries in modern astronomy and astrophysics.

Before the big bang, time, space, and matter didn't exist. In the 14 billion years since, scientists have pointed their telescopes upward, peering outward in space and backward in time, developing and refining theories to explain the weird and wonderful phenomena they observed. Through these observations, we now understand concepts like the size of the universe (still expanding), the distance to the next-nearest star from earth (Alpha Centauri, 26 trillion miles) and what drives the formation of elements (nuclear fusion), planets and galaxies (gravity), and black holes (gravitational collapse). But are these cosmological questions definitively answered or is there more to discover?

Oxford University astrophysicist and popular YouTube personality Dr. Becky Smethurst presents everything you need to know about the universe in ten accessible and engaging lessons. In Space at the Speed of Light: The History of 14 Billion Years for People Short on Time, she guides you through fundamental questions, both answered and unanswered, posed by space scientists. Why does gravity matter? How do we know the big bang happened? What is dark matter? Do aliens exist? Why is the sky dark at night? If you have ever looked up at night and wondered how it all works, you will find answers--and many more questions--in this pocket-sized tour of the universe!

An entirely consumable account of deep subjects

This book covers a wide range of topics in astrophysics that is completely understandable to the average person. Through it anyone can understand why we, as humans, study this subject. It is a fascinating discussion of our universe and our place in it. This book is very well worth the time it takes to listen. Being read by the author, her excitement and interest for her subject shows thru and makes it obvious why she chose this for her life's work. Splendid! Well done, indeed!!!

Very Highly Recommended

This book & her other one “A Brief History of Black Holes” are so enjoyable. I absolutely love her narration. The pleasure that I get from her books is akin to Neil DeGrasse Tyson.

Infinitely fun and educational

This book is for anyone who has a mind and wants to continue to fill it with fascinating information through a most enjoyable presentation.

Dr Becky is very good at explaining things to a non scientist

Very informative book. Very engaging but not too technical. For anyone with an interest in astronomy.

Go Dr Becky!

Good read, good reading, good job!

I thoroughly enjoyed the whole bit. when's your next, Dear?