The Edge of Space-Time: Particles, Poetry, and the Cosmic Dream Boogie

In this unique yet dense primer on cosmology, the study of the origin and evolution of the universe, physicist Chanda Prescod-Weinstein (The Disordered Cosmos) calls for an anticolonial approach to science and space exploration. She argues that “in order to move forward, we must always reach back to our past and use it as a motivation and a guide.” Revealing how marvelous, strange, and unpredictable the universe is, she explains concepts like special relativity (the theory that space and time are linked), wave-particle duality (when fundamental entities, like electrons and photons, act like particles as well as waves), and black holes (regions in space with gravity so intense that nothing can escape). She blends these scientific discussions with references to poetry and popular culture, invoking T.S. Eliot to explain the concept of time, Nikki Giovanni to elucidate the possibilities of space travel, and Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland to demonstrate applications of quantum mechanics. Throughout, she encourages approaches to science that prioritize humanity over capitalism, imperialism, and white supremacy; reflecting on the modern space race, for example, she asks, “How can we imagine leaving Earth’s surface and making a livable home elsewhere when we can’t even get it right here?” While ostensibly aimed at a lay audience—“This is supposed to be fun,” Prescod-Weinstein writes in the introduction—readers may struggle with the many abstract concepts. Still, those enchanted by the mysteries of the cosmos will find this worth the effort. (Apr.)