Location | Destiny Theater
Dr. Louis Friedman discusses and signs copies of his book, “Alone but Not Lonely: Exploring for Extraterrestrial Life.” In “Alone but Not Lonely,” Dr. Friedman takes the stance that intelligent life is probably rare in the universe (maybe even uniquely on Earth) but that simple life is likely abundant on millions or billions of planets waiting now to be discovered. A book signing follows the discussion.
About “Alone But Not Lonely”
Humans have always been fascinated by the possibility of extraterrestrial life, often wondering if we are alone in the universe. Drawing on nearly fifty years as a leader in planetary exploration, Louis Friedman brings into focus the subject of extraterrestrial life, separating knowledge from conjecture, fact from fiction, to draw scientific and technical conclusions that answer this enduring question.
Friedman argues that intelligent life is probably rare in the universe (maybe even uniquely on Earth) but that simple life is likely abundant on millions or billions of planets waiting now to be discovered. He asserts that studying and searching for extraterrestrial life cannot be done by interstellar probes—due to the vastness of space and the comparative brevity of human lifespans—but it can be done remotely by a new technique involving the solar gravity lens that can magnify exoplanets by tens of billions. This technique will allow humankind to explore exoplanets and open up an exciting new field of comparative astrobiology.
Wide-ranging in scope, this book discusses the history of searching for extraterrestrial life, the scientific evidence thereof, and finally his own conclusions on what’s next. Included in the book are three appendices: an explanation of interstellar messaging, a reprint of a debate between Carl Sagan and Ernst Mayr on extraterrestrial intelligence, and an opinion essay on the search for extraterrestrial intelligence.
About Dr. Louis Friedman
Dr. Louis Friedman co-founded the Planetary Society with Carl Sagan and Bruce Murray and was its executive director for thirty years. He has contributed to numerous journals and is the author of “Starsailing: Solar Sails and Interstellar Travel,” “Human Spaceflight: From Mars to the Stars,” and “Planetary Adventures: From Moscow to Mars.” He serves on the NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts External Council and on the Breakthrough Initiatives Starshot Advisory Committee. Friedman is an elected member of the International Academy of Astronautics and the Explorers Club and was a leader of the NASA/JPL Advanced Programs.
Admission
This event is included in general admission for Friday, September 18. Members receive free general admission. Not yet a Space Center Houston member? Become a member now to receive discounts on tickets to special events, free general admission and other exclusive benefits.
