Explores the possibility of establishing colonies in space, traveling by starship to other galaxies, and meeting extraterrestrials.

Discusses the origins and characteristics of our universe, focusing on the nature of stars.

Discusses the origins, physical makeup, and relationship to earth of the huge star called the sun.

Compares what writers over the centuries have written about an imaginary future with the reality revealed by time.

Briefly describes the process involved in making paper and some of the problems associated with the production and use of paper.

Explains why stars in the night sky appear to twinkle.

Each numbered entry gives short to lengthy biographical information. Chronological arrangement. Most biographies from previous editions have been expanded as new information became available to author. Subject and name index.