Astronomy & Physics Audiobooks | Science & Technology

The Edge of Reality: Two Scientists Evaluate What We Know of the UFO Phenomenon

From the outset, Hynek and Vallee make their position clear: UFOs represent an unknown but real phenomenon. The far-reaching implications take us to the edge of what we consider the known and real in our physical environment. Perhaps UFOs signal the existence of a domain of nature as yet totally unexplored. These two eminent scientists studied the UFO phenomenon for decades and collaborated on this landmark report. The authors sample UFO reports, including those allegedly involving humanoids, and describe the patterns that have been perceived in the behavior of the phenomenon. They also establish a framework for the further study of the UFO phenomenon. Where might such study lead? What can be studied, and how? What is the real nature of the UFO phenomenon? Does it originate with the actions of other intelligences in the universe? If so, where, and what, might they be? Does the UFO phenomenon have a purely physical explanation, or is there a vaster, hidden realm that holds the solution? These are the questions that have concerned the authors for many years, and it is with possible answers to them that The Edge of Reality is concerned. This book is a deep dive in discussion between Hynek and Vallee and covers many facets of the UFO phenomena. The Edge of Reality was originally published in 1975 and has been available for many years.

J. Allen Hynek, Jacques Vallee (Author), Jonathan Yen (Narrator)

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Quantum Computing For Dummies

Quantum computing has the promise to be the next huge thing in technology. How do we know that? Look at how much the big players in tech are investing in the technology. Quantum Computing For Dummies preps you for the amazing changes that are coming with the world of computing built on the phenomena of quantum mechanics. Need to know what is it and how does it work? This easy-to-understand book breaks it down and answers your most pressing questions. Get a better understanding of how quantum computing is revolutionizing networking, data management, cryptography, and artificial intelligence in ways that would have previously been unthinkable. With this Dummies guide, you'll get a primer on the inner workings and practical applications of quantum computers. You will: learn the difference binary and quantum computers; discover which industries will be most influenced by quantum computing; see how quantum improves encryption and enables business; and take a look at how quantum is applied in big data and AI. For technologists and IT pros interested in getting on board the quantum train-plus anyone who's quantum-curious-this Dummies guide is a must-listen.

Floyd Smith, Whurley (Author), Joel Richards (Narrator)

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Things That Go Bump in the Universe: How Astronomers Decode Cosmic Chaos

The violent birth of the universe was only the first bang of a very bumpy ride. This unfathomably cacophonous beginning has spawned blasts, implosions, cosmic cannibalism, collisions, and countless other fleeting energetic events punctuating the cosmos. Although often brief, these transient phenomena pack a powerful punch. In Things That Go Bump in the Universe, astronomer and science writer C. Renee James introduces us to her colleagues around the world, who are using pioneering research techniques to explore everything from the very first explosions in the universe to the dark energy that could destroy it all. James describes the history of transient astronomy, how the universe presents itself through various astronomical messengers, and the unexpected connections between different phenomena. James explains a different category of transient event in each chapter, using easy-to-understand metaphors and stories to explain the science behind these awe-inspiring, cosmological encounters. Things That Go Bump in the Universe explores the incredible discoveries being made in this revolutionary field, the tools used to detect cosmic events, and the astronomical mysteries that continue to puzzle observers and theorists. James weaves together the stories of our turbulent universe and the people who are trying to make sense of it.

C. Renee James (Author), Wendy Tremont King (Narrator)

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Off-Earth: Ethical Questions and Quandaries for Living in Outer Space

Can we do better in space than we've done here on Earth? We've pinpointed the destination, refined the technology, designed the habitat. Are we forgetting something? A timely reminder that it's not just rocket science, this book explores the all-too-human issues raised by the prospect of settling in outer space. Accordingly, her work highlights the complex ethical challenges that accompany any other-worldly venture-questions about the environment, labor rights, and medical ethics, among others. Any such venture, Nesvold contends, must be made on behalf of all humanity, with global input and collaboration. Off-Earth thus includes historical and contemporary examples from outside the dominant Western/US, abled, and privileged narrative of the space industry. Nesvold calls on experts in ethics, sociology, history, social justice, and law to launch a hopeful conversation about the potential ethical pitfalls of becoming a multi-planet species-and, ideally, to shed light on similar problems we presently face here on Earth. Space settlement is rapidly becoming ever more likely. Will it look like the utopian vision of Star Trek? Or the dark future of Star Wars? Nesvold challenges us to decide.

Erika Nesvold (Author), April Doty (Narrator)

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Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison: (2 Books in 1) The Rival Inventors Who Powered the Modern Era

'Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison: The Rival Inventors Who Powered the Modern Era' is an enthralling two-in-one volume that unites the remarkable stories of two of history's most extraordinary inventors. Authored by Michael W. Simmons, this composite work weaves together the parallel narratives of Tesla and Edison, whose innovations and rivalry forged the path of the technological age. The first section, derived from 'Nikola Tesla: Prophet of The Modern Technological Age,' immerses readers in the mysterious and groundbreaking world of Nikola Tesla. Renowned for inventions like the induction motor and contributions to electrical engineering, Tesla's life was filled with achievements that bordered on the magical. This book takes readers from Tesla's extraordinary childhood experiences in Croatia, through his fierce competition with Edison, to his ambitious projects that revolutionized technology and occasionally, like in New York, almost literally shook the world. Relationships with key figures such as Mark Twain, J.P. Morgan, and Albert Einstein are explored, revealing the depth of Tesla's impact in various spheres. Transitioning to 'Thomas Edison: American Inventor,' the second section of the book, readers encounter the quintessential story of American innovation. Edison's journey from conducting experiments in his youth to inventing the phonograph and the incandescent light bulb is a testament to his inventive genius. Through Edison’s personal writings and contemporary accounts, the book vividly brings to life the experience of witnessing Edison's inventions for the first time. His friendships with notable individuals like Henry Ford and his wartime efforts offer a comprehensive view of a man whose inventions illuminated the world. Together, these stories form 'Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison a compelling narrative.

Michael W. Simmons (Author), Alan Munro, Omar Johnson (Narrator)

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Worlds Without End: Exoplanets, Habitability, and the Future of Humanity

Planet Earth, it turns out, may not be the best of all possible worlds-and lately humanity has been depleting resources, decimating species, and degrading everything needed for life. Meanwhile, human ingenuity has opened up a vista of habitable worlds well beyond our wildest dreams of outposts on Mars. Worlds without End is an expertly guided tour of this thrilling frontier in astronomy: the search for planets with the potential to host life. Chris Impey conducts listeners across the vast, fast-developing field of astrobiology, surveying the dizzying advances carrying us ever closer to the discovery of life beyond Earth-and the prospect of humans living on another planet. With a view spanning astronomy, planetary science, geology, chemistry, and biology, Impey provides a state-of-the-art account of what's behind this accelerating progress, what's next, and what it might mean for humanity's future. The existential threats that we face here on Earth lend urgency to this search, raising the question: Could space be our salvation? From the definition of habitability to the changing shape of space exploration-as it expands beyond the interests of government to the pursuits of private industry-Worlds without End shows us the science, on horizons near and far, that may hold the answers.

Chris Impey (Author), Jonathan Todd Ross (Narrator)

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[Spanish] - Las ideas fundamentales del universo (The Biggest Ideas in the Universe): Espacio, tiemp

La física moderna ofrece numerosos avances sobre el origen y el funcionamiento del universo, conocimientos que se transmiten en forma de ecuaciones que, a menudo, nos parecen un galimatías. Con talento incomparable, Sean Carroll demuestra que esas ecuaciones son como verdaderos poemas repletos de significado que nos ayudan a descubrir un milagroso paisaje multidimensional de gigantes radiantes, espacio-tiempo deformado, agujeros negros o fuerzas increíblemente poderosas, y, en suma, que son accesibles a cualquier persona con estudios de matemáticas de secundaria. Porque Carroll ha logrado construir algo que a muchos les parecía altamente improbable: un sólido puente entre la ciencia popular y el universo matemático de los físicos en activo. Nadie como él nos guía con tanta fluidez hacia la comprensión de la ecuación que Einstein utilizó para describir su teoría de la relatividad general. Este libro constituye una introducción inspiradora y deslumbrante en la comprensión de cómo funciona el universo y sus leyes, y está llamado a convertirse en el referente indiscutible de la divulgación de la física y la astrofísica durante generaciones, en la senda de las legendarias conferencias que Richard Feynman publicó hace ya más de sesenta años.

Sean Carroll (Author), Fernando Simon (Narrator)

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White Holes: Inside the Horizon

Brought to you by Penguin. Let us journey, with beloved physicist Carlo Rovelli, into the heart of a black hole. Let us slip beyond its boundary, the horizon, and tumble - on and on - down this crack in the universe. As we plunge, we'll see geometry fold, we'll feel the equations draw tight around us. Eventually, we'll pass it: the remains of a star, deep and dense and falling further far. And then - the bottom. Where time and space end, and the white hole is born . . . With lightness and magic, here Rovelli traces the ongoing adventure of his own cutting-edge research, of the uncertainty and joy of going where we've not yet been. Guiding us to the edge of theory and experiment, he invites us to go beyond, to experience the fever and the disquiet of science. Here is the extraordinary life of a white hole. ©2023 Carlo Rovelli (P)2023 Penguin Audio

Carlo Rovelli (Author), Harry Lloyd (Narrator)

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In Our Time: 25 Concepts and Theories in the History of Physics: A BBC Radio 4 Collection

Melvyn Bragg and guests explore the history of physics through its most important ideas and hypotheses 'In Our Time is in a class of its own' New York Times Eclectic, erudite and entertaining, In Our Time is one of Radio 4's most successful programmes, regularly attracting an audience of over 2 million for its discussions on every subject under the sun: from oceanography to Ovid. In this special themed collection, Melvyn Bragg is joined by guest experts including Simon Schaffer, John Gribbin, Jim Al-Khalili and Sir Martin Rees to discuss 25 of the key laws, principles and problems of physics. Here are examinations of major concepts including plasma, radiation, matter and antimatter and the Second Law of Thermodynamics, as well as discourses on historical theories such as Zeno's paradoxes, the speed of light and relativity. Also featured are analyses of modern developments in physics, including the discovery and growing understanding of the proton, neutron and electron, the controversial breakthrough of nuclear technology, and the search for the holy grail of 20th century physics: the Grand Unified Theory. Physicists, students of science and knowledge seekers will savour these wide-ranging, comprehensive and accessible discussions, which serve as a springboard to dive deeper into the fascinating fundamental principles that govern our universe. Production credits Presented by Melvyn Bragg Produced by Thomas Morris and Simon Tillotson First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on the following dates: Part I: Major Concepts States of Matter 3 April 2014 Heat 4 December 2008 Absolute Zero 7 March 2013 The Second Law of Thermodynamics 16 December 2004 Plasma 13 October 2016 Magnetism 29 September 2005 Radiation 12 November 2009 The Physics of Time 18 December 2008 Quantum Gravity 22 February 2001 Antimatter 4 October 2007 The Graviton 24 November 2005 Optics 1 March 2007 With Simon Schaffer, Jim Bennett and Emily Winterburn Part II: Historical Theories Zeno's Paradoxes 22 September 2016 The Speed of Light 30 November 2006 The Laws of Motion 3 April 2008 Kinetic Theory 23 May 2019 Relativity 6 June 2013 The Physics of Reality 2 May 2002 Part III: Modern physics Grand Unified Theory 24 February 2000 The Electron 29 September 2022 Nuclear Physics 10 January 2002 Cosmic Rays 16 May 2013 The Proton 26 April 2018 The Neutron 14 April 2016 The Neutrino 14 April 2011 © 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

Melvyn Bragg (Author), Melvyn Bragg, Various (Narrator)

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The Unity of Science: Exploring Our Universe, from the Big Bang to the Twenty-First Century

A journey guided by science that explores the universe, the earth, and the story of life For Irwin Shapiro, science starts with questions. This book provides a broad and entertaining survey of major scientific discoveries that have changed our views of nature and, in turn, spawned further questions. Shapiro, an award-winning scientist and beloved teacher, separates his inquiry into three parts: looking up at the universe; looking down at the earth and its fossils; and looking in at the story of life. His framework encourages listeners to view science as a detective story-to observe and question nature and natural phenomena, and to base all conclusions on scientific evidence. With his knowledgeable yet conversational approach, Shapiro offers an enjoyable way for the curious to learn about the foundations of a range of scientific topics: the motions of bodies in the cosmos, the history and structure of the earth, the evolution of organisms, and the search for extraterrestrial life and intelligence.

Irwin Shapiro (Author), Christina Delaine (Narrator)

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In Our Time: 25 Explorations of Space: A BBC Radio 4 Collection

Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the cosmos, from the origins of the universe to dark matter and dark energy 'Consistently superb' John Banville In Our Time is a linchpin of the Radio 4 schedule, attracting over 2 million listeners a week since its launch in 1998. Erudite, edifying and enlightening, it tackles serious ideas succinctly, providing fascinating insight into subjects ranging from the Fibonacci Sequence to Frida Kahlo. In this special thematic anthology, we traverse the solar system, the galaxies and the multiverse, voyaging across space to explore 25 celestial objects and phenomena. Included are programmes on the universe, the sun, the moon, the stars and the planets - among them our near neighbours, Venus and Mars. Also featured are discussions on comets, asteroids and black holes, as well as eclipses, exoplanets and the mysterious, invisible substance known as 'dark matter'. Topping and tailing the collection are episodes dealing with the science of astronomy, examining Ptolemy's geocentric theory of the universe and the relationship between astronomy and the British Empire. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Melvyn Bragg, with contributions from expert scholars and academics including Sir Martin Rees, John Gribbin, Carolin Crawford and Sir Roger Penrose, these captivating colloquies will inspire anyone with a sense of wonder and a thirst for knowledge. Production credits Presented by Melvyn Bragg Produced by Natalia Fernandez, Thomas Morris, Simon Tillotson, Julia Johnson and Phil Tinline First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on the following dates: Ptolemy and Ancient Astronomy 17 November 2011 The Multiverse 21 February 2008 The Universe's Origins 20 May 1999 The Universe's Shape 7 February 2002 The Age of the Universe 3 March 2011 Galaxies 29 June 2006 The Sun 10 July 2014 The Moon 3 November 2011 Eclipses 31 December 2020 The Planets 27 May 2004 Venus 27 December 2018 Mars 11 January 2007 Saturn 14 January 2016 The Kuiper Belt 2 March 2017 Exoplanets 3 October 2013 The Life of Stars 27 March 2003 The Death of Stars 9 June 2022 Black Holes 12 April 2001 Asteroids 3 November 2005 Comets 17 January 2013 The Cool Universe 6 May 2010 Dark Matter 12 March 2015 Dark Energy 17 March 2005 The Vacuum of Space 30 April 2009 Solar Wind 23 January 2020 Astronomy and Empire 4 May 2006 © 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

Melvyn Bragg (Author), Melvyn Bragg, Various (Narrator)

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Space Trek

This audiobook has been recorded using Text to speech (TTS). For decades we have all grown up watching science fiction movies and TV shows. And we have all dreamed of going where no man has gone before. That time is here and now. We are on the very edge of a new era in humanity. Within the next few years mankind will be not only journeying to other planets, we will be inhabiting them. Our ultra-high technology robots are even now walking upon the surface of Mars, sending back information and preparing the ground for our coming. This is not science fiction. This is science fact. And just as before in the history of humanity, the process is being led by several unique, intelligent and talented individuals such as Elon Musk. Rocket ships take off vertically and return to Earth vertically. Humans are shuttled to the International Space Station as if they're travelling from New York to Los Angeles. Supersonic space craft fly mankind around the globe virtually in space, just to make things faster. But what does the future hold for us? We cannot maintain peace on Earth. How can we do so in space? NASA, SpaceX and Virgin are not the only ones with eyes upon the stars. Russia and especially China, also have desires in that direction. The race for space is on and all bets are off.

Raphael Terra (Author), Raphael Terra (Narrator)

Audiobook

Astronomy & Physics Audiobooks in Science & Technology