Space Chronicles: Facing the Ultimate Frontier

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Space Chronicles: Facing the Ultimate Frontier

by Neil deGrasse Tyson, Avis Lang (Editor)

3.95 of 5 stars 3.95 · rating details · 1,672 ratings · 182 reviews

Neil deGrasse Tyson is a rare breed of astrophysicist, one who can speak as easily and brilliantly with popular audiences as with professional scientists. Now that NASA has put human space flight effectively on hold with a five- or possibly ten-year delay until the next launch of astronauts from U.S. soil Tyson s views on the future of space travel and America s role in th...more

Hardcover, 384 pages

Published February 27th 2012 by W. W. Norton & Company

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Jun 29, 2012 David rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: adventure, astronomy, technology

This book is a collection of fascinating essays. Each essay is a gem; Tyson has excellent points of view about a number of subjects related to space exploration. The main theme of the book, is that NASA's funding should be increased, in order to allow manned space flights beyond low-Earth orbit. Tyson has some very good reasons for this; perhaps the chief reason is that only manned space flights will generate enthusiasm among young people, sufficient to encourage them to become scientists and en...more

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Apr 28, 2013 Stephen rated it 4 of 5 stars

Space Chronicles

Space Chronicles: Facing the Ultimate Frontier
© 2012 Neil deGrasse Tyson; edited by Avis Lang
384 pages

On July 20th, 1969, America mesmerized the world by landing men on the Moon. For the first time in history, human feet stepped on the soil of another planet. But on July 21st. 2011, the Space Shuttle Atlantis touched down on the runway and the United States ceased to be a spacefaring nation, for the shuttle program had ended. Space Chronicles collects essays by astrophysicist and...more Space Chronicles

Space Chronicles: Facing the Ultimate Frontier
© 2012 Neil deGrasse Tyson; edited by Avis Lang
384 pages

On July 20th, 1969, America mesmerized the world by landing men on the Moon. For the first time in history, human feet stepped on the soil of another planet. But on July 21st. 2011, the Space Shuttle Atlantis touched down on the runway and the United States ceased to be a spacefaring nation, for the shuttle program had ended. Space Chronicles collects essays by astrophysicist and science advocate Neil deGrasse Tyson which looks back on the history of the American space program and reflect on its legacy both to science and the human endeavor before arguing that the United States need to return to space with bold ambitions.

Tyson first caught my attention a few years ago when a book described him as "the next Carl Sagan". Here, he lives up to expectations as a passionate science communicator: he is earnest, witty, and urgently excited about the matter at hand. Although ostensibly about the exploration of space, Chronicles is more fundamentally a book about the value of science -- and not just the knowledge itself, which enriches human experience and provides the spark for material progress, but of scientific thinking -- skepticism and wonder. The epilogue, which stresses the value of the "Cosmic Perspective", practically channels Sagan.

Science advocacy is the message, but Tyson uses the inspiring and exciting adventure of space exploration as the messenger. Although enthusiastic about humanity's accomplishments thus far, Tyson avoids being labeled a starry-eyed optimist by consistently stressing the pragmatic aspects of space exploration, the technological boons. It's not the spin-off products like Velcro that Tyson has in mind, though: he points out that NASA's endeavors have effected progress in other fields through "cross-pollination": one example he uses is that of the Hubble research team pioneering methods to put together meaningful conclusions from scant data while the telescope was impaired, methods that were adopted by cancer researchers to improve their analyses of mammograms. More strikingly, though, he makes no attempt to interpret the space race of the 1960s as a bold, purposeful step forward in human exploration: instead, he sees it as being motivated by the desire for economic and military gains. Tyson emphasizes this not to convey cynicism about space exploration, but demonstrate how much was accomplished even though the motivations were less than inspiring, and to to point out that aerospace can continue to be a source of economic progress today.

In fact, aerospace is a source of progress for humans today, but not for Americans. Americans, Tyson laments, have gone backwards by standing still. Other nations are becoming the technological leaders of tomorrow, and Tyson -- an American, writing to motivate his fellow citizens to start believing in and working for the future again -- despairs of this. He sees hope in China's aggressive ambitions in space: if competition with Russia sent us to the moon back in 1960s, perhaps competition with China will take us further.For the time being, however, even our past accomplishments are beyond us now.

Space Chronicles sees Tyson communicate a great deal -- the history, motivation, and practical aspects of space flight, the value of science, critical thinking, and wonder, the United States' emphatic need to re-prioritize science, mathematics, and industry -- and do so with style. There is a slight weakness in the fact that Chronicles is an edited collection of essays and interviews, and not a monograph written as a cohesive whole. Repetition of certain facts, examples, and so on exists, but this is a weakness only and not a glaring flaw. As it stands, Chronicles is impressive and engaging, of interest to both space enthusiastic and critics.
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Mar 24, 2013 Ron Arden rated it 5 of 5 stars

As usual, Neil deGrasse Tyson is funny, interesting and impassioned about science. This book is a collection of thoughts from speeches, writings and encounters of the last few years. Neil makes an impassioned plea for science literacy and the need for revitalizing NASA and its role to inspire a generation and country.

Neil hits upon how NASA inspired a generation of scientists and engineers to reach the common goal of landing a human on the Moon and returning safely to Earth. Through that process...more As usual, Neil deGrasse Tyson is funny, interesting and impassioned about science. This book is a collection of thoughts from speeches, writings and encounters of the last few years. Neil makes an impassioned plea for science literacy and the need for revitalizing NASA and its role to inspire a generation and country.

Neil hits upon how NASA inspired a generation of scientists and engineers to reach the common goal of landing a human on the Moon and returning safely to Earth. Through that process, countless inventions were created as inspired people overcame very difficult problems. He also talks about what really motivated funding NASA. It wasn't an altruistic idea for exploration, but a military need to beat the Russians. Yuri Gagarin was the first human in space in 1961. Soon after, President Kennedy announced that the US wold be the first to the Moon. As Neil states, only military supremacy, war and economic gain drive large, multi-year projects from governments.

I learned a lot about science, space, and our need to continue space exploration through this book. The US was supreme in so many ways throughout the latter half of the 20th century. We are now becoming an insular nation who graduates far more lawyers than scientists and engineers. There is precedence in history for what is happening to us. As we stop expanding the frontiers of exploration, we may become a second rate power. The national debate is focusing on cutting spending to everything, including those things that made us great in the first place. The NASA budget is less that a half cent on the taxpayer dollar, yet in the past it was the driver of our economic engine. As Neil says, science and technology drive our economy, not lawyers.

He also is terrified at the lack of basic scientific literacy in the US. One example is a recent poll showing that 20% of Americans believe the Sun revolves around the Earth. Idiocy is passing for chic. China, Russia and India have aggressive space programs and graduate more scientists and engineers than we have college graduates. Most of what we do in modern life is based on research and discoveries from the space program and related activities. Cell phones, microwave ovens, PCs, velcro, fuel efficient cars, you name it, came from these programs. It's time to stop the nonsense and start discovering again.

Every time I listen to or read something from Dr. Tyson, I feel inspired. He is a hard core scientist, but also a great communicator. His love of science is infectious and he understands that we as a human race can come together to overcome our numerous problems through a concerted effort at looking toward something bigger than ourselves. As he shows, we are the universe and the universe is us. Some are threatened or terrified by the idea that we are a small speck in the cosmos. I for one agree with Tyson, that it's inspiring to "boldly go where no one has gone before"; apologies to Gene Roddenberry. (less)

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Apr 09, 2012 Simon rated it 4 of 5 stars

I'm starting to think and hope that Neil DeGrasse Tyson is our generation's version of Carl Sagan. In that he not only writes and speak about space with such energy and passion, but he shares Sagan's ability to explain the universe in humurous, elegant and easy to understand ways, that make his work accessible to the laymen, as well as the passionate science and space geeks out there.

I watched Tyson give an interview the other night and he had me shouting "yes!" at the television as he systemati...more

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Mar 20, 2012 Ken Bronsil rated it 4 of 5 stars

I have heard Neil DeGrasse Tyson on various television shows and have been amazed at his energy, vitality, and imagination. It all comes through in this book, which is a collection of both his written work and his verbal presentations, interviews, and speeches. That means you read some ideas or expressions, or even stories, more than once. I didn't find that a problem because it's helpful to hear them again. There are a few chapters involving some advanced physics concepts; there are many other...more

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Feb 19, 2012 Jorge rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: science, politics-economics

Space Chronicles: Facing The Ultimate Frontier by Neil deGrasse Tyson

“Space Chronicles" is the inspirational plea of why NASA matters to America and what space exploration means to our species. Renowned astrophysicist, Neil deGrasse Tyson dissects the politics of space and also enlightens the reader of the sense of awe that comes from space exploration and discovery. This book selections represent commentary, interviews, thought-provoking quotes reflecting a spectrum of fascinating topics from...more

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Mar 31, 2012 Brian Clegg rated it 2 of 5 stars

I really struggled with this book. I love space and space travel - I have lived through and been thrilled by the entire space race and the development of space science. I expected to love a book by a great astronomer and science populariser, but instead I pretty well had to give up, part way through.

There are two problems. The lesser one is the structure of the book. It consists of a collection of articles, interviews and such that Tyson has produced on the subject of space exploration. This ine...more I really struggled with this book. I love space and space travel - I have lived through and been thrilled by the entire space race and the development of space science. I expected to love a book by a great astronomer and science populariser, but instead I pretty well had to give up, part way through.

There are two problems. The lesser one is the structure of the book. It consists of a collection of articles, interviews and such that Tyson has produced on the subject of space exploration. This inevitably means there is repetition. A lot of repetition. It's not that what he is saying is not interesting, but after you've heard it for the tenth time it loses its novelty. Perhaps the most interesting thing is the way Tyson is so obviously pulled in two directions. On the one hand he appreciates how superior unmanned satellites and explorers are from a bang-per-buck science viewpoint. On the other hand he believes manned missions are essential to raise interest levels. But of course manned missions are very expensive and almost purely political/military in role, so he really does have to go through some entertaining gymnastics to defend them.

But the thing that made me give up was the sheer jingoism of the book. If you aren't an American, I can guarantee this book will irritate you. Here's one example, the words of an interviewer speaking to Tyson (who Tyson doesn't argue with): 'If we land on Mars, how are we going to know if USA is number one if an American astronaut is standing next to a French guy? Are we going to say, "Go Earth!"? No, we're going to say, "Go USA!" Right?' So basically international cooperation like CERN is a waste of time and money - all that's important, all that space science is about, is knowing that USA is number one.

An even better example, as it is purely Tyson's own remarks is when he is talking about the aerospace industry, bemoaning the loss of US control. He says 'In the fifties, sixties, seventies, part of the eighties, every plane that landed in your city was made in America. From Aerolineas Argentinas to Zambian Airways, everybody flew Boeings.' I'm sorry? I worked for an airline in the 1970s, and I can tell you this is total baloney (which is apparently American for bilge). Remind me, for example, who built the Comet, the first jet airliner. Which American company? Oh, no, it was British. Of course Boeing was the biggest player in the period he describes, but there were plenty of others. (There were even a couple of other US manufacturers. Remember Lockheed?) Could I just point out also who made the only supersonic airliner flying back then. And come to think of it, the only one to fly ever since. The UK and France. And what did the US contribute to this amazing advance? They tied it up with red tape and objections so it was almost impossible to fly it.

This really made me angry, I'm afraid. In another article, Tyson tells off a judge for inaccuracy because he referred to 1,700 milligrams rather than 1.7 grams. Okay, it wasn't a particularly sensible convention, but at least it wasn't wrong. Saying 'all planes were (US) Boeings' is just factual inaccuracy to put across your political position. A book on space travel must cover politics, but once it is so hugely politically biased towards one country, however significant it may have been to the aerospace business, it loses credibility. This isn't a book about space science, it's a rallying cry for Americans. That's something that has its place. I'm not knocking America, and it's good that Tyson is proud of his country. But a science book isn't the place for such sentiments.

Review first published on www.popularscience.co.uk and reproduced with permission(less)

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Mar 26, 2012 Matthew Borgard rated it 4 of 5 stars

Fantastic Ideas, Decent Presentation

I've been a longtime fan of Dr. Tyson, and after seeing a particularly brilliant interview he did on the Daily Show, I finally took it upon myself to get one of his books. Space Chronicles is quintessential Neil, exploring the broad topic of the funding of science through the more narrow lenses of space exploration, NASA and American politics.

I'll get the negative out of the way first: This book is repetitive. Since Space Chronicles is a compilation of various...more Fantastic Ideas, Decent Presentation

I've been a longtime fan of Dr. Tyson, and after seeing a particularly brilliant interview he did on the Daily Show, I finally took it upon myself to get one of his books. Space Chronicles is quintessential Neil, exploring the broad topic of the funding of science through the more narrow lenses of space exploration, NASA and American politics.

I'll get the negative out of the way first: This book is repetitive. Since Space Chronicles is a compilation of various speeches, essays and op-ed columns, that's to be expected. But it would have been nice to see some of the repeated ideas trimmed, or merged together. We are reminded multiple times that America's expedition to The Moon was because of political, not philosophical, pressures -- but we're often reminded in the exact same terms, and in sort of a "Did You Know?" type of way. Well, yes, I did know -- you mentioned it last chapter. This is the most fundamental weakness of the book, but honestly, it's more of an annoyance than a serious issue. But if you're willing to skim past the repeated paragraphs, there are some lofty (and depressing) ideas within.

Yes, I said depressing. There's no sugar coating it: amongst all the awesome images of planets and stardust, of impressive goals and awesome technology, the primary message of this book is "We [as in, America] have totally screwed ourselves, and I'm not sure we can correct it." Tyson points out early and often that the Saturn V rocket, the rocket used to transport the Apollo crews to The Moon, remains the most powerful vehicle launch vehicle ever created. And that was made in 1967. While our more recent shuttle rockets have gotten arguably more efficient, none surpasses the Saturn V in power. Imagine if our computers never become more powerful than they were in 1967. Imagine if our vehicles never became more advanced than they were in that decade. It's a horrific thought, and the fact our children look at 1960's technology with wonder and awe, as if such a thing as space travel is impossible, should depress every science-loving American.

Speaking of Americans, it should be noted that this book is unashamedly American. Dr. Tyson admits as much. While there are space-lovers worldwide, I doubt they'll have as much personal connection with Space Chronicles as an American. Really, if I were to suggest a subtitle, it would be "The Downfall of an American Dream."

Anyway, back to the book -- I've covered the first reason why it's depressing: we've yet to progress past the 1960's. But the second reason is that there's no evidence to suggest we're going to improve anytime soon. Dr. Tyson makes the point that only war seems to encourage us to look beyond our own shores, and while he stops short of actually wishing for a huge international conflict with another superpower, he definitely implies that reinvesting in science and technology might be a silver-lining to a cold war with someone like China. Sure, he pays lip service to the idea that we could all cooperate, hold hands and sing kumbayaa as we launch a team of astronauts, cosmonauts and taikonauts into space -- but he makes it clear that's very unlikely. So what we're left with is a book that says "This is what needs to happen. Unfortunately, it probably won't."

So, with that said, is it still worth reading? Absolutely. For one thing, there are plenty of space tidbits and little Tyson-isms spread through the text to keep you thoroughly entertained. But even beyond that, if we want to have even a *hope* against the view that long-term science isn't important, we need to start fighting for it. We need to start demanding that our government invest more in science than in war. We need to start demanding that our infrastructure be modernized -- more cutting-edge transportation, less crumbling bridges. We need to start demanding that the progress of the entire human race not take a backseat to petty political squabbling, and that goes for BOTH sides of the aisle (I say this as a proud lefty liberal - plenty of Democrats fought against NASA funding while Bush was president, and plenty of righties are fighting against it now).

In Space Chronicles, Neil deGrasse Tyson makes a compelling argument that an obsession with space is an intrinsic part of being American. And he makes a strong argument that we need to fight to keep it that way.(less)

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Jun 28, 2012 Chris rated it 3 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Everyone

This book, a compilation of Neil DeGrasse Tyson's articles for magazines such as Natural History, along with edited versions of public speeches he's given and introductions to books, comes to a total of 26 separate pieces from the past dozen or so years, all about space exploration. Consequently, it's a bit repetitive and never delves into too much detail.
Still, inspiring and mind-expanding stuff throughout, and with the news that he's going to be making an updated series of Cosmos, I have hope...more

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Mar 07, 2012 AnnMarie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: non-fiction

Space Chronicles is not a tough read like A Brief History of Time, nor is it an amazing look at how science will improve our lives like Micho Kaku's Physics of the Future. It's a collection of brief passages, most reprinted material from Neil deGrasse Tyson's many newspaper columns, interviews, and even some of his more poignant tweets. This makes for an incredibly easy read, and one that I was almost finished with in only a few hours' time.

And the more I read, the more I came to realize who thi...more

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Mar 18, 2012 jeremy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: science, essays

the great neil degrasse tyson, astrophysicist, director of the hayden planetarium, pbs/nova host, and ambassador to all sorts of interstellar and cosmic awesomeness, is also the author of nearly a dozen books. his newest, space chronicles: facing the ultimate frontier, is a collection of three dozen articles, speeches, and interviews (and even a poem!) previously published or delivered in public. divided into three main parts ("why," "how," and "why not"), space chronicles delves into a wide var...more the great neil degrasse tyson, astrophysicist, director of the hayden planetarium, pbs/nova host, and ambassador to all sorts of interstellar and cosmic awesomeness, is also the author of nearly a dozen books. his newest, space chronicles: facing the ultimate frontier, is a collection of three dozen articles, speeches, and interviews (and even a poem!) previously published or delivered in public. divided into three main parts ("why," "how," and "why not"), space chronicles delves into a wide variety of topics and subtopics related to space exploration, the space program, and the science advanced by the two.

tyson, with the trademark wit and humor that has made him so beloved, expounds upon the importance of reinvigorating our national space program and advocates for increasing nasa's budget (from it's current and paltry halfpence on the tax dollar). he seeks these goals, not merely for the sake of exploration and discovery (important pursuits be they may), but instead to (re)foster a culture that shares a common dream of the future; one that inevitably results in new technologies, greater understanding, and an overall amelioration of the human species. tyson decries the decline of scientific literacy so prevalent in today's american society and contrasts it with other countries, whose own space programs are growing ever more focused and robust (there are now more scientifically literate citizens in china than there are college graduates in the united states).

when you visit other countries that don't nurture these kinds of ambitions, you can feel the absence of hope. owing to all manner of politics, economics, and geography, people are reduced to worrying only about that day's shelter or the next day's meal. it's a shame, even a tragedy, how many people do not get to think about the future. technology coupled with wise leadership not only solves these problems but enables dreams of tomorrow.

space chronicles is accessible and digestible to anyone curious about recent astronomical developments, as tyson is adept at distilling the essence of even the most complex of subjects. this collection is rather light on the science (for those unnecessarily deterred by the often challenging nature of headier works), and instead finds tyson serving in his more familiar role of educator and diplomat to the stars. while there is some repetition to be found within these essays, articles, and speeches (as they were delivered to a range of audiences), it in no way detracts from the nature of tyson's message, and, in fact, only serves to reinforce the important points he attempts to convey. space chronicles also features eight fascinating appendices, six of which focus on the meager tax dollars apportioned to nasa each fiscal year (as percentage of gdp, as percentage of total government spending, in comparison to other nations, etc.) and two that offer the full texts of the nasa's policies as enacted by law (national aeronautics and space act of 1958 & selected statutory provisions applicable to nasa).

neil degrasse tyson (host of the soon to be released sequel to carl sagan's epic miniseries cosmos) is a ~~national~~ galactic treasure. with infectious enthusiasm, reason, and humility, tyson is the epitome of the sort of teacher that every student deserves to have at the front of his or her science classroom. space chronicles, at the very least, will likely renew or strengthen the allure and enchantment of space exploration for its readers, and, perhaps, may just compel one to speak out as an advocate for bolstering the nasa budget, in the hopes of recommitting ourselves, as a nation, to the promise and wonder of the as yet uncharted frontiers overhead.

during our brief stay on planet earth, we ourselves and our descendants the opportunity to explore- in part because it's fun to do. but there's a far nobler reason. the day our knowledge of the cosmos ceases to expand, we risk regressing to the childish view that universe figuratively and literally revolves around us. in that bleak world, arms-bearing, resource-hungry people and nations would be prone to act on their "low contracted prejudices." and that would be the last gasp of human enlightenment- until the rise of a visionary new culture that could once again embrace the cosmic perspective.

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Mar 25, 2013 Edward rated it 4 of 5 stars

“Why,” “How,” and “Why Not” make up the three sections of this collection of speeches, articles, and interviews which all attempt to answer the questions of what NASA means to America, and what space exploration means to our species.

If there is one theme to which Tyson repeatedly returns, it is that scientific outcomes cannot be scripted, meaning that any kind of scientific exploration is just that – exploration whose discoveries are always going to be unknown. Scientists, he writes, have to be...more “Why,” “How,” and “Why Not” make up the three sections of this collection of speeches, articles, and interviews which all attempt to answer the questions of what NASA means to America, and what space exploration means to our species.

If there is one theme to which Tyson repeatedly returns, it is that scientific outcomes cannot be scripted, meaning that any kind of scientific exploration is just that – exploration whose discoveries are always going to be unknown. Scientists, he writes, have to be comfortable with ignorance. Most of us aren’t, jumping to fallible conclusions far too quickly. There is a sense of wonder in Tyson’s comments on science, one that is evoked as well by religion and art. The chief obstacles to our exploration of the infinite space that surrounds our tiny spinning planet, the third from our sun, is that people are limited by their lack of imagination. There are a lot of familiar arguments – space exploration costs too much, there is nothing to learn from it that is of any practical value, we have more important things to do here on earth.

Tyson answers all of these questions. To be human is to ask philosophical questions. Where did we come from? Where are we going? Where do we fit in the universe? Most of what the universe has to tell us, Tyson points out, does not reach the surface of the earth. There is information about the age and nature of the components of the universe that only be answered by the radio communications from rockets which have been sent into deep space. Two of the most important inventions were the telescope and the microscope, both of which defied “common sense” but without which we would be incredibly ignorant. Space exploration falls in the same category.

Space exploration with a well-funded NASA costs a few cents on the tax dollar, and is worth every penny. The risks of the American space program, its cancellations, failures, even deaths, are all part of the endeavors of space exploration. Ironically, space exploration is only well-funded when we are at war or think our progress gives us a military advantage, the best example being our moon landing in l969. We rushed to get there to beat the Russians. And having accomplished that feat, we have mostly abandoned any further trips in the past half century, even though non-military reasons for further exploration are scientifically compelling.

As for practicality, there are many, many science spin-offs from the space program that benefit all of us. Dialysis, laser surgery, global positioning systems, corrosion-resistant materials, cordless power tools, athletic shoes, virtual reality devices, the list goes on and on. Again, the point is that the impact of the space program cannot be predicted in advance. But when so much concentration of scientists, engineers, mathematicians, and technological brainpower is concentrated in one place, unforeseen and beneficial advancements for the entire society are guaranteed to happen.

All of these points are scattered throughout Tyson’s speeches and articles, but a constant drumbeat is the need for a sense of passion. He says we only remember “passionate” teachers, ones who communicated enthusiasm and commitment toward their subject. If we want future scientists, we need these kinds of science teachers who inspire these qualities. NASA is a way of nurturing the advancement of scientists who at heart are as creative as any of our artists.

Tyson closes with these words, “During our brief stay on planet Earth, we owe ourselves and our descendants the opportunity to explore – in part because it’s fun to do. But there’s a far nobler reason. The day our knowledge of the cosmos ceases to expand, we rish regressing to the childish view that the universe figuratively and literally revolves around us . . . And that would be the last gasp of human enlightenment – until the rise of visionary new culture that could once again embrace the cosmic perspective.”

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Jun 18, 2012 Jason Bergman rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

First off, let me just say that I really enjoyed this book. A three star rating doesn't always convey that for some people. Neil deGrasse Tyson is a solid writer, with lots of interesting anecdotes, and he cares deeply about this subject.

So why did I knock off two stars? Because, as much as I enjoyed the book, it is extremely repetitive. The book consists of articles and interviews previously published elsewhere, most of which came from his magazine column. The subjects cover a decent range, but...more

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Jun 05, 2012 Lauren rated it 4 of 5 stars

This is a collection of Dr. Tyson’s articles and lectures given over the last fifteen years. They are all fascinating, but I’m a little miffed this was not made clear in any of the press I saw or read – I had been under the impression this was an argument for why we need NASA, which it sort of is, only it’s several arguments rather than a single narrative. To that end, some of the articles repeat the same anecdotes and facts, which, while interesting from the standpoint of seeing how Dr. Tyson’s...more

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May 21, 2012 Debby Allen rated it 4 of 5 stars

Had this been fiction, I think it would have gotten three stars. But as non fiction, not my favorite, it held and even excited me. NDT loves his work, and it comes through in his writing as well as interviews. He explains all the benefits we have because of space exploration, including and especially the less than obvious. He anticipates the new things we can't even imagine yet from continued/new exploration. But he is not pollyanna. He's honest about how and why space gets funded. war and cold...more

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Apr 25, 2012 Luaba rated it 5 of 5 stars

In his latest book, Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson urges America to action to invest more in the future of space exploration. Making a strong case for the interweaving of innovation and the program. He uses humor, politics, pragmatism, history, popular culture, economics, poetry (I know he went all out), patriotism, and urgency to plea is case. All he's asking... a penny on every tax dollar to insure American innovation and competitiveness in the 21-century.

And more than that, the good doctor makes u...more

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Apr 08, 2012 Jason rated it 4 of 5 stars

Neil deGrasse Tyson divides up the space enthusiast into two separate and distinct camps - those who support space exploration as a practicality or a means to an end (usually financial or military), and the starry-eyed dreamers who want to make sci-fi television series come true within our lifetime. I must admit that I am, or at least was, in the latter camp. It holds a significant amount of weight when someone of Dr. Tyson's position and status says "no, you can't get there just by dreaming" -...more

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Jun 17, 2012 Brad rated it 4 of 5 stars

If Neil deGrasse Tyson is not one of your most favorite people in the world, then I am way sorry that you’re such a jerk. I mean, for shame! The guy is a national treasure! No one more adamantly cares for the world that your children will grow up in and no one is better suited to inspire and motivate them quite like this dear astrophysicist.

So Tyson is a hero of mine. That’s true. Because he is just an amazing person, that’s why! Our most treasured science popularizer, heir of Sagan, in this la...more

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Apr 03, 2012 Ryan rated it 5 of 5 stars

This isn't a book solely for the nerdiest of nerds, the smartest of the smart, or the ones with the spaciest delusions. This is a book for America. Neil DeGrasse Tyson demonstrates with great style the benefits of space discovery across the board. He begins with why we went to the moon in the first place, then moves to why we stopped, and, naturally, ends with why we HAVE to return. The short of it? We went to the moon because the Soviet Union surpassed us technologically with sputnik. In other...more This isn't a book solely for the nerdiest of nerds, the smartest of the smart, or the ones with the spaciest delusions. This is a book for America. Neil DeGrasse Tyson demonstrates with great style the benefits of space discovery across the board. He begins with why we went to the moon in the first place, then moves to why we stopped, and, naturally, ends with why we HAVE to return. The short of it? We went to the moon because the Soviet Union surpassed us technologically with sputnik. In other words, war was the driving factor behind NASA getting a budget to send the Saturn V rocket to the moon. A stark realization of the forces that have driven this nation for decades. NASA, made up of the most intelligent people in the nation with a thirst for healthy discovery and scientific advancement, at the mercy of a select few whose main motivation is to be the toughest, and not necessarily the greatest. As Tyson points out several times, the nation with the most advanced technology and infrastructure wins. And you better believe that NASA is responsible for everyday technologies that you would be sure to miss if NASA were suddenly wiped from all time and existence.

Tyson demonstrates this cross-pollination that takes place. NASA doesn't just benefit the whimsies of some space nuts, nor is it a welfare for people too smart for the rest of society (according to Wanda Sykes). All facets of science and technology go into the exploration of space and other planets. And those discoveries assist in other facets of the nations industries. The health industry would be in a different place today if it weren't for NASA's assistance with using X-rays, LASIK eye surgery, and even a technology that can detect early signs of breast cancer. That mammogram technology came from the need to improve the blurry images coming from the Hubble Telescope. There are countless other contributions to society credited to NASA and their technological advances.

The most important benefit that is brought up in Space Chronicles, is the motivation to dream. Specifically, encouraging young children to pursue scientific studies so they too can send a rocket into space. Naturally, all children won't make it to be an astronaut. But you benefit no matter what when you have people of all different levels and expertise across the board participating in the overall scientific discovery.

The point of all of this is that we look at the Saturn V rocket used during the 1960s and 1970s with awe and wonderment, unlike looking at the early cell phones the size of bricks. If we start looking back with awe on these technologies, questioning how we ever were able to do that, then we are falling behind. China is moving ahead of us, and other countries will start to follow suit. NASAs entire budget from it's first day in existence to now is that of the military budget for 23 days...not during war time. We may be the country with the biggest stick, but sticks and stones mean nothing compared to the vast benefits of technological advances for the sake of discovery and not destruction. Common arguments will bring up the problems at home, but when the asteroid that is in fact headed our way gets too close, will we have the knowledge and technology to deflect it? We are capable of this feat, but not if we keep regarding space as an insignificant force on humanity. The truth is, humanity is an insignificant force on the universe, and in discovery we can unlock it's secrets and live in mutual respect.(less)

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Apr 25, 2012 Meghan Tracy rated it 5 of 5 stars

I am more than a little ashamed of how long it took me to read this book. It had nothing to do with DeGrasse Tyson’s writing and everything to do with my brain’s capacity to process and integrate information. You all know how much of a fan I am of this man, but it bears repeating. There aren’t many people in our current generation capable of igniting imagination is quite the way that DeGrasse Tyson does. With his charisma and charm, every time I hear him speak or read his words, I’m invariably i...more

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Oct 20, 2012 John Hansen rated it 3 of 5 stars

A collection of essays, speeches, and interviews on the topic of space exploration, Tyson discusses the challenges inherent in returning humans to outer spaces.

Because it wasn't written as a single book, many of the points he makes get repeated throughout. But they're still worth considering. For example, the Saturn rocket, which made it possible for humans to reach the moon, has yet to be surpassed. He also argues that NASA's budget needs to be doubled. Spin-off technologies from space explora...more

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Mar 16, 2012 Ron rated it 4 of 5 stars

I am a huge fan of NDT. I absolutely agree with basically everything I've heard him say on space and NASA. So I pretty much had to read this book just on general principle and in support of what he's doing.

That being said, I felt a little disappointed emotionally when reading this. I guess my expectations were too high. I would have devoured this as a teen, before starting at NASA. It is definitely geared toward the layman. Which is really as it should be. At the same time I didn't enjoy readin...more

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Mar 23, 2012 Earl Grey Tea rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: history, non-fiction, opinion, science

We should declare war on asteroids and comets!

Know your Enemy!

Neil deGrasse Tyson, one of America's top pop-scientist, brings forth some wonderful and interesting information about the past, present and future of NASA and the country of America in general. He writes in a manner that is quite accessible to the average reader. You can learn about the basics of Space Exploration from him without the jargon of advance math and science.

How was it America was able to direct some much (and yet at the...more

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Mar 20, 2012 Brie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: astronomy, non-fiction, ebooks, 2012

Goodreads asks 'What did you think?' I think that Mr. Tyson made his point, and he made it well. He convinced me that NASA needs more money, and this nation needs more dreamers.

For the record, I love Neil DeGrasse Tyson. Death by Black Hole: And Other Cosmic Quandaries is one of my favorite books. He knows exactly how to talk to the general public about all things related to astronomy, without seeming to dumb down the material. While this book focuses less on science, and more on NASA and its fu...more Goodreads asks 'What did you think?' I think that Mr. Tyson made his point, and he made it well. He convinced me that NASA needs more money, and this nation needs more dreamers.

For the record, I love Neil DeGrasse Tyson. Death by Black Hole: And Other Cosmic Quandaries is one of my favorite books. He knows exactly how to talk to the general public about all things related to astronomy, without seeming to dumb down the material. While this book focuses less on science, and more on NASA and its funding and what it means to America, Tyson's humorous and easy to read writing style is still there.

NASA and its objectives mean more to America than just studying our universe, or sending people into space. Tyson makes the point that NASA has a huge economic impact on America, and the technology that it helps to inspire, trickles down to other disciplines and eventually ends up in our everyday lives (GPS, LASIK surgery, cordless power tools, and water filters are a few examples). People who think NASA doesn't do anything to solve the problems we currently have should read this book to find out what NASA is really about. Tyson talks about how America used to be the leader in space exploration, but has fallen in line with the rest of the world, and will soon be surpassed by countries like China. Since we are falling behind, we are losing high paying jobs to overseas space programs. Without NASA at the forefront, we have fewer dreamers, and even fewer kids who want a career in science. The next logical step for any space program would be going to Mars, but Tyson says that won't be led by NASA unless we find an economic or military driver for it. This has always been what has propelled NASA's funding in the past, and most likely will in the future as well. The most eye-opening fact of this entire book? NASA currently receives 1/2 of 1% of each tax dollar. That's half a penny!

My only real issue with the book is it is a bit repetitive. Since it is a collection of essays and interviews all revolving around a similar topic, Tyson inevitably repeats himself. That's the only reason I gave it 4 stars. Also, just an FYI, it contains 3 chapters that were also in Death by Black Hole.

Overrall, I would highly recommend this book!(less)

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Mar 09, 2012 David rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: ebook, ibooks

A collection of essays written by Tyson over the years. Essays describe America's history in space and our current aimlessness in space exploration. The essays are consistent: we went to Moon to beat the Russians - essentially a Cold War endeavor; a nation that does not dream and think about tomorrow is doomed; other nations will pass us by; with NASA's share of the US budget less than 1/2 of 1% we can do great things if only we'd look up and dream. As someone who once dreamed of being an astron...more

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Jun 28, 2012 Kevin Cecil rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: history, science, politics

A few years ago on Real Time with Bill Mahr, Ashton Kutcher asked why we waste money on NASA. His point was there there are so many problems down here on Earth that shooting money at the stars just seems wasteful. Someone needs to give Mr. Kutcher this book.
In SPACE CHRONICLES Neil deGrasse Tyson explains the applicable scientific achievements brought to us through space exploration (including a Hubble inspired breast cancer detector), while also detailing the numerous cosmic queries answered o...more

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Apr 16, 2012 Rick rated it 4 of 5 stars

I love love love love NDT. He is, as my girlfriend puts it, a "national treasure." The messages in this book are great. It is, however, a little repetitive. You could probably read half of it and then stop. I found myself yearning for the end, which is totally weird for a book by a man that I admire on a topic I am endlesslessly, passionately interested in. But since the book is an amalgamation of speeches, writings, tweets, etc., and NDT is excellent on staying on point and on message when he s...more

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May 04, 2013 Nitya Sivasubramanian rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 5star

Is there anything sexier in the world than an intelligent man who talks passionately about his work in a way that makes your feel more intelligent just for listening? If there is, please don't tell me, so I can continue to wallow in the wonder that is Neil deGrasse Tyson and his latest book, Space Chronicles: Facing the Ultimate Frontier.

To be honest, not much of what Mr. Tyson bases his arguments on is news to me. After all, I consider myself to be very much part of the choir he sees himself p...more Is there anything sexier in the world than an intelligent man who talks passionately about his work in a way that makes your feel more intelligent just for listening? If there is, please don't tell me, so I can continue to wallow in the wonder that is Neil deGrasse Tyson and his latest book, Space Chronicles: Facing the Ultimate Frontier.

To be honest, not much of what Mr. Tyson bases his arguments on is news to me. After all, I consider myself to be very much part of the choir he sees himself preaching to, a liberal pacifist with a strong desire to see more focus and money spent on education and technology. Although I chose not to go to university to study engineering, I do believe strongly in the NASA and the work and research they do. And although I do believe that my tax money should be spent making life better on earth, like Mr. Tyson, I don't believe that precludes spending money on science! So as I began reading the book, I was not looking to be convinced that America needs to spend more money on exploring space. However, I WAS amazed when I realized how LITTLE is currently spent on research and technology towards space exploration and why that translates into some real problems down here on Earth.

Perhaps if I had spread out my reading of Space over more time, I wouldn't have been so struck by how much he repeats himself. After all, this book is a collection of thoughts that he spread out over different articles, columns and speeches over a stretch of time. But once you get past what seems like him harping on and on about certain issues, his writing is so clear and concise that I found myself wanting to write down snippets to repeat in conversations when I need to convince others on the urgency of turning our eyes and hearts to returning to space.

When you see your tax dollar broken down to less than half a penny for NASA, you have to wonder will that really be enough to make Star Trek a reality? And when you are able to make fun of the brick-like cellphones from the last decade, why are you still amazed by rockets from the 60s?

Do yourself a favor. Read this book. And take notes!(less)

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Mar 14, 2012 Eddie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: non-fiction

I gave this four stars because I really like NDT. However, the last 1/3 of the book is a plea for more funding for NASA, which he persuasively argues. Funding for NASA has become more political than ever. Tyson makes the point that funding has always had to have a military component or some serious issue to be tackled. When Sputnik was launched and then the Russians sent Yuri Gagarin into space, President Kennedy made his famous speech about getting a man to the moon and safely returned to Earth...more

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Mar 07, 2012 Jeff Raymond rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-nonfiction, read-science

I have an appropriate mancrush on Neil deGrasse Tyson, so grabbing his newest book was a no-brainer for me. The book is a collection of previously written op-eds, speeches, and essays about space travel, the space program, and the universe, and all have that well-known Tyson charm to them, at that.

Tyson is probably our best scientific popularist out there currently, and this book is a great example of it. I'm not sure if he'll catch a lot of new eyes with it, but it's still a great primer, and o...more

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About Neil deGrasse Tyson

Neil deGrasse Tyson was born and raised in New York City where he was educated in the public schools clear through his graduation from the Bronx High School of Science. Tyson went on to earn his BA in Physics from Harvard and his PhD in Astrophysics from Columbia.

Tyson's professional research interests are broad, but include star formation, exploding stars, dwarf galaxies, and the structure of our...more Neil deGrasse Tyson was born and raised in New York City where he was educated in the public schools clear through his graduation from the Bronx High School of Science. Tyson went on to earn his BA in Physics from Harvard and his PhD in Astrophysics from Columbia.

Tyson's professional research interests are broad, but include star formation, exploding stars, dwarf galaxies, and the structure of our Milky Way. Tyson obtains his data from the Hubble Space Telescope, as well as from telescopes in California, New Mexico, Arizona, and in the Andes Mountains of Chile.

In 2001, Tyson was appointed by President Bush to serve on a 12-member commission that studied the Future of the US Aerospace Industry. The final report was published in 2002 and contained recommendations (for Congress and for the major agencies of the government) that would promote a thriving future of transportation, space exploration, and national security.

In 2004, Tyson was once again appointed by President Bush to serve on a 9-member commission on the Implementation of the United States Space Exploration Policy, dubbed the Moon, Mars, and Beyond commission. This group navigated a path by which the new space vision can become a successful part of the American agenda. And in 2006, the head of NASA appointed Tyson to serve on its prestigious Advisory Council, which will help guide NASA through its perennial need to fit its ambitious vision into its restricted budget.

In addition to dozens of professional publications, Dr. Tyson has written, and continues to write for the public. He is a monthly essayist for Natural History magazine under the title Universe. And among Tyson's eight books is his memoir The Sky is Not the Limit: Adventures of an Urban Astrophysicist; and Origins: Fourteen Billion Years of Cosmic Evolution, co-written with Donald Goldsmith. Origins is the companion book to the PBS-NOVA 4-part mini-series Origins, in which Tyson serves as on-camera host. The program premiered on September 28 and 29, 2004. And beginning in the fall of 2006, Tyson appears as the on-camera host of PBS-NOVA's spinoff program NOVA ScienceNow, which is an accessible look at the frontier of all the science that shapes the understanding of our place in the universe.

Tyson's latest two books are the playful and informative Death By Black Hole and Other Cosmic Quandaries, which was a New York Times bestseller, and The Pluto Files: The Rise and Fall of America's Favorite Planet, chronicling his experience at the center of the controversy over Pluto's planetary status.

Tyson is the recipient of nine honorary doctorates and the NASA Distinguished Public Service Medal. His contributions to the public appreciation of the cosmos have been recognized by the International Astronomical Union in their official naming of asteroid 13123 Tyson. On the lighter side, Tyson was voted Sexiest Astrophysicist Alive by People Magazine in 2000.

Tyson is the first occupant of the Frederick P. Rose Directorship of the Hayden Planetarium. Tyson lives in New York City with his wife and two children.(less)

More about Neil deGrasse Tyson...

Books by Neil deGrasse Tyson

Death by Black Hole: And Other Cosmic Quandaries

The Pluto Files: The Rise and Fall of America's Favorite Planet

Origins: Fourteen Billion Years of Cosmic Evolution

The Sky is Not the Limit: Adventures of an Urban Astrophysicist

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“In 2002, having spent more than three years in one residence for the first time in my life, I got called for jury duty. I show up on time, ready to serve. When we get to the voir dire, the lawyer says to me, “I see you’re an astrophysicist. What’s that?” I answer, “Astrophysics is the laws of physics, applied to the universe—the Big Bang, black holes, that sort of thing.” Then he asks, “What do you teach at Princeton?” and I say, “I teach a class on the evaluation of evidence and the relative unreliability of eyewitness testimony.” Five minutes later, I’m on the street.

A few years later, jury duty again. The judge states that the defendant is charged with possession of 1,700 milligrams of cocaine. It was found on his body, he was arrested, and he is now on trial. This time, after the Q&A is over, the judge asks us whether there are any questions we’d like to ask the court, and I say, “Yes, Your Honor. Why did you say he was in possession of 1,700 milligrams of cocaine? That equals 1.7 grams. The ‘thousand’ cancels with the ‘milli-’ and you get 1.7 grams, which is less than the weight of a dime.” Again I’m out on the street.” — 94 people liked it

“As a child, I was aware that, at night, infrared vision would reveal monsters hiding in the bedroom closet only if they were warm-blooded. But everybody knows that your average bedroom monster is reptilian and cold-blooded.

Tyson, Neil deGrasse; Avis Lang (2012-02-20). Space Chronicles: Facing the Ultimate Frontier (Kindle Locations 1880-1882). Norton. Kindle Edition.” — 35 people liked it

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