Here is a sample of physics & astronomy-related books that are new to Gleeson Library. To view additional titles, see New Physics & Astronomy Books on the library website.
Her Space, Her Time: How Trailblazing Women Scientists Decoded the Hidden Universe
“Her Space, Her Time” by Shohini Ghose celebrates overlooked women physicists and astronomers who revolutionized science and society. The book explores various scientific topics, highlighting how women like Henrietta Leavitt, Margaret Burbidge, Mary Golda Ross, Marietta Blau, Hertha Wambacher, and Bibha Chowdhuri made groundbreaking discoveries in areas such as the Big Bang, cosmic calendar, space exploration, and subatomic particles. Ghose weaves together their stories of scientific innovation and overcoming invisibility, showcasing their contributions to physics, astronomy, and the advancement of women in science. This accessible and inspiring book illuminates the critical roles played by these trailblazing women in shaping our understanding of the universe.
Superheavy: Making and Breaking the Periodic Table
“Superheavy” explores the fascinating world of creating new elements beyond uranium. This challenging process involves using massive machines to fuse atomic nuclei, with success rates so low it’s like hitting a needle in a haystack with a bullet. The book delves into the history, politics, and scientific breakthroughs surrounding superheavy elements, including their role in atomic bombs and the race to discover new ones. From Cold War rivalries to modern international collaborations, it reveals the human stories behind these elemental quests, showcasing how nuclear science has shaped our world and pondering its future implications.
A Quantum Life: My Unlikely Journey from the Street to the Stars
“A Quantum Life” chronicles Hakeem Muata Oluseyi’s extraordinary journey from a troubled youth in impoverished neighborhoods to becoming a renowned astrophysicist. Born James Plummer, he navigated poverty, violence, and racism while nurturing his genius IQ and passion for science. Adopting the persona of a “gangsta nerd,” he balanced street life with academic pursuits. At Stanford, he confronted personal demons and institutional barriers, ultimately embracing his African heritage and seizing his dream in astrophysics. This inspiring memoir showcases the power of perseverance and intellect in overcoming adversity.
Accidental Astronomy: How Random Discoveries Shape the Science of Space
“Accidental Astronomy” by Chris Lintott explores the serendipitous nature of astronomical discoveries. Lintott argues that luck plays a crucial role in astronomy, as many significant findings occur unexpectedly. The book highlights the importance of constant observation and global collaboration between professionals and amateurs to capture fleeting celestial events. Lintott’s engaging writing style and humor make complex concepts accessible, while emphasizing the wonder of the universe. This celebration of astronomy showcases how chance encounters with the cosmos shape our understanding of the night sky.
Grace in All Simplicity: Beauty, Truth, and Wonders on the Path to the Higgs Boson and New Laws of Nature
“Grace in All Simplicity” is a captivating exploration of humanity’s quest to understand the physical world. Authors Cahn and Quigg interweave tales of inspiration, tragedy, and triumph, connecting recent discoveries like the Higgs boson, dark matter, and dark energy with revolutionary findings from centuries past. The book takes readers on a journey from the infinitesimal to the infinite, showcasing how scientists push the boundaries of knowledge through innovative instruments and original thinking. It celebrates the curiosity, diligence, and daring of both past and present scientists, offering a thrilling voyage through the world of physics and astronomy.
Interstellar: The Search for Extraterrestrial Life and Our Future in the Stars
Avi Loeb, renowned Harvard astrophysicist and author of “Extraterrestrial,” presents a compelling case for humanity’s interstellar future in his new book. Loeb argues that becoming an interstellar species is crucial for our survival and outlines a practical approach to prepare for potential contact with extraterrestrial civilizations. The book challenges science fiction narratives, offering a realistic blueprint for alien encounters. Loeb discusses ongoing scientific efforts, debates surrounding Unidentified Aerial Phenomena, and the implications of interstellar travel. By combining cutting-edge science, physics, and philosophy, “Interstellar” revolutionizes our approach to searching for and potentially interacting with extraterrestrial life, emphasizing the importance of scientific curiosity for humanity’s future.
Escape from Shadow Physics: The Quest to End the Dark Ages of Quantum Theory
“Escape from Shadow Physics” by Adam Forrest Kay challenges the prevailing interpretation of quantum mechanics, which suggests reality is dependent on human observation. Kay argues for a more intuitive understanding of quantum phenomena, drawing on Einstein’s skepticism and recent research with oil droplets. These droplets exhibit quantum-like behavior while obeying classical physics, potentially bridging the gap between classical and quantum realms. Kay proposes a revolutionary view of quantum mechanics that aligns with a predictable, observer-independent reality, potentially reshaping our understanding of the universe.
In a Flight of Starlings: The Wonders of Complex Systems
Giorgio Parisi’s “In a Flight of Starlings” explores complex systems through the lens of bird flocks. The Nobel Prize-winning physicist uses this unconventional approach to illuminate principles applicable to various fields, from atoms to human societies. Parisi reflects on his scientific journey, emphasizing the role of serendipity in discovery and the interconnectedness of physics with other disciplines. He advocates for the importance of scientific inquiry in society and brings the practice of science out of the laboratory and into everyday life. The book combines scientific insights with personal reflections, offering readers a unique perspective on the wonders of the natural world.
The Alladi Diary: Memoirs of Alladi Ramakrishnan
Alladi Ramakrishnan’s autobiography chronicles the life of this renowned physicist and son of Sir Alladi Krishnaswami Iyer, a key figure in drafting India’s Constitution. The book details Ramakrishnan’s upbringing in colonial Madras and his establishment of MATSCIENCE, inspired by Princeton’s Institute for Advanced Study. It recounts his directorship at MATSCIENCE, global academic travels, and scientific contributions in various fields, including Probability, Stochastic Processes, and Special Relativity. The narrative is enriched with historical photographs and documents, offering a vivid portrait of a remarkable scientific journey set against the backdrop of India’s transition from colonial rule to independence.
Putting Ourselves Back in the Equation: Why Physicists Are Studying Human Consciousness and AI to Unravel the Mysteries of the Universe
George Musser’s “Putting Ourselves Back in the Equation” explores the intricate connection between physics, consciousness, and the pursuit of a unified theory. The book delves into how observation affects both quantum mechanics and cosmology, necessitating an understanding of human consciousness to fully grasp the universe. Musser examines the potential synergy between neuroscience and physics, suggesting that insights from each field could inform the other. By interweaving quantum mechanics, cosmology, consciousness, and artificial intelligence, the author presents a compelling argument for the interdependence of theories of everything and theories of mind.
Book summaries composed with AI-assistance.