The dimming of starlight the philosophy of space exploration / Gonzalo Munévar.

Author/creator Munévar, Gonzalo
Other author Oxford University Press.
Format Electronic
Publication InfoNew York, NY : Oxford University Press, [2023]
Descriptionxix, 287 pages : illustrations (some color), color map ; 24 cm
Supplemental ContentFull text available from Oxford Scholarship Online
Subjects

Contents 1. Why Philosophy? -- 2. The Standard Case For and Against Space Exploration -- 3. The Philosophy of Exploration -- 4. Comparative Planetology and Serendipity -- 5. Cosmology and Fundamental Physics -- 6. Space Biology -- 7. Humankind in Outer Space -- 8. The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence -- 9. Space Technology and War -- 10. Survival and Wisdom
Abstract Galileo and Kepler dreamed of the possibility of space exploration, although its reality was later underappreciated and even challenged by social, ideological, and scientific critics as a diversion from our problems on Earth. The Dimming of Starlight tells the fascinating stories of how space exploration places us in unusual situations that force us to come up with new ideas about nature. This strong connection between scientific exploration and scientific change makes us aware of a new panorama of problems, dangers, and opportunities that leads to new solutions and technologies that would have been unimaginable under old perspectives. Thus, the exploration of Venus led to the discovery of the destruction of Earth's Ozone layer. This discovery will save hundreds of millions of lives in the coming centuries. As we explore space, we learn to protect our planet from catastrophe, and all the while we change drastically our ideas about the nature of the universe. With its account of serendipity and splendor, the book invites readers on an exciting journey in which, step by step, we are shown the crucial importance of space exploration for humanity.
Bibliography noteIncludes bibliographical references and index.
Access restrictionAvailable only to authorized users.
Technical detailsMode of access: World Wide Web
Genre/formElectronic books.
LCCN 2023293115
ISBN9780197689912 (hardcover)
ISBN0197689914 (hardcover)
ISBN(electronic book)
ISBN(electronic book)
ISBN(electronic book)

Availability

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