• Grade: 7 to 12

"The Universe and Beyond is a celebration of the human spirit of exploration. It is a majestic voyage to the most distant realms we can imagine. Prepare yourself for a great adventure."
- Edward G. Gibson, Astronaut, Skylab 4

The Universe and Beyond is a factual, up-to-date guide to the universe, written by bestselling astronomy author, Terence Dickinson. This book includes the most recent astronomical discoveries and events using imaginative astronomical illustration in addition to dramatic photography from the Hubble Space Telescope, space probes and the largest observatories on Earth.

This fourth edition has been carefully reviewed, revised and brought up-to-date with new text and photographs. The chapter on cosmology is significantly expanded to include new information about the origin of the universe and the large-scale structure of the universe. Also included are over thirty new photographs of planets, nebulas, galaxies and galaxy clusters.

Every major topic of astronomy is described clearly and concisely. The Universe and Beyond addresses the questions that arise most often from those with a fascination for the night sky. Brimming with color illustrations, the book includes the Cassini-Huygens mission.

Other topics include:

• Overview of the universe
• The solar system and nearby worlds
• Planets of other stars
• Galaxies and black holes
• The search for extraterrestrial life
• How the universe will end
• Telescopes for the twenty-first century.

The astronomical resources include books, associations and web sites.

 

Terence Dickinson, one of Canada's best-loved amateur-astronomy writers, gained renown for unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos. His down-to-earth style made him the award-winning best-selling author of 14 astronomy books, including NightWatch, The Backyard Astronomer's Guide, The Universe and Beyond and Hubble's Universe. The cofounder and former editor of SkyNews, Canada's national astronomy magazine, Dickinson was a recipient of the Order of Canada and two honorary doctorates. He died of complications from Parkinson's on February 1, 2023.

Terence Dickinson's profile page

Edward Gibson's profile page

The latest update... continues to provide an accessible and wonderfully illustrated tour.

Sky and Telescope

[Of two books reviewed] Dickinson devotes considerably more space to (highly speculative) discussions of extraterrestrial life. His upbeat book, displaying an abundance of stunning photographs and space art, is by far the more appealing... Recommended for all libraries.

Library Journal

The 'beyond' subjects include cosmology, dark matter, extra-terrestrial life, UFO's, and the ultimate fate of the universe ... Lavishly illustrated with astrophotos, artworks and diagrams.

Astronomy

Terence Dickinson has produced another gem in Universe and Beyond, now in its fourth and expanded edition... Every page is full of visual impact both photographically and graphically. Each illustration is complemented with an in-depth caption.

E-Streams

Astronomer Terence Dickinson presents the state of current knowledge and theory about the universe in accessible form. ... Packed with information, its photographic images augmented with explanatory graphics and artistic renderings.

Washington Post

This impressive volume provides an excellent overview of the heavens for the general reader. What sets it apart from a multitude of other books of its type is a lively, informative text and dozens of stunning photographs and illustrations. It is a delight to read and a delight for the eye.

American Reference Book Annual

Chosen as one of the "Best Books for Junior High and Young Adult 2005" by Science Books and Films.

Science Books and Films

The Universe and Beyond is an excellent overview of the cosmos... Lavishly illustrated with both full-color photographs and artist's paintings, the book is comprehensive (no small feat when discussing the universe) and well organized... The explanations that help the average person comprehend the scale of the universe, combined with the wonderful illustrations, make this book a must-have for anyone interested in astronomy.

Science Books and Films

Excellent book... exceedingly well written and filled with stunning photos and illustrations, the book is one of the best I have seen so far for use by general audiences of astronomically curious readers.

Science Books and Films