This is a fascinating and informative book that explores the many ways in which the universe affects our planet and our lives. Kaler, an astronomer and Professor Emeritus at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, writes in a clear and engaging style, and he does an excellent job of explaining complex scientific concepts in a way that is accessible to the lay reader.
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The book begins with a discussion of the ways in which the moon and the sun affect Earth's tides, climate, and weather. Kaler begins by examining the gentle ebb and flow of lunar and solar tides and then goes on to discuss the more potent influences of the sun, such as solar storms and auroras, and goes on to discuss the more dramatic effects of the universe on our planet, such as the impact of asteroids and comets, the dangers of solar flares, and the potential for supernovae to destroy life on Earth.
He also explores the ways in which the planets can act to produce climate change, and how even our entire galaxy might hurl comet storms at us, finally taking us into the deepest reaches of space to describe the cosmic rays launched at us from exploding stars.
The book provides a fascinating account of how human existence is intimately connected to the dynamic universe in which we live. Kaler writes with enthusiasm, conveying his own wonder and excitement at the myriad mysteries of the universe. He notes that all cultures have recognized stellar patterns, and that our own 48 constellations were passed down to us from the ancient Greeks and Arabs. He also discusses the universe's "shape," which he compares to a four-dimensional sheet of rubber that can be bent and distorted in a variety of ways. The shape of the universe is crucial to understanding its age and composition.
In the second half of the book, Kaler turns his attention to the ways in which the universe has contributed to the development of life on Earth, including the role of cosmic rays in the formation of organic molecules, the importance of meteorites in delivering water and other essential elements to Earth, and the possibility that life on Earth may have originated elsewhere in the universe.
One of the most interesting things about the book is the author description of how the Earth is constantly bombarded by energy from space, which can take many forms, including light, heat, radiation, and even particles. While some of this energy can be harmful, it is also essential for life on Earth, the sun's energy provides the warmth and light that plants need to grow. Kaler also explains the ways in which the Earth's gravity and magnetic field are influenced by the cosmos, from the Moon's gravity causing the tides to rise and fall to the Earth's magnetic field protecting us from harmful radiation from the sun.
Heaven's Touch is a thought-provoking and inspiring book that will leave readers with a deeper appreciation for the vastness and complexity of the universe. It gives straightforward explanations of complex scientific concepts and has a clear and engaging writing style, although some of the scientific concepts might be challenging. It is a must-read for anyone who is interested in astronomy, cosmology, or the origins of life. As Kaler says: “A starry sky, twinkling lights in a velvet firmament, distant Suns; they enter our art, our music, poetry, legends, and perhaps most importantly our philosophies”.
- Gerrard Russell
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