Planet Hunters The search for extraterrestrial life Lucas Ellerbroek
Translated by Andy Brown

‘In this delightful scientific chronicle of humanity’s quest for “other worlds”, astronomer Lucas Ellerbroek mixes memoir, history and meetings with remarkable planet hunters.’ — Nature

‘It seems as though we’re discovering new exoplanets regularly, but one thing we haven’t found yet is life on them (let’s be real: That is probably going to take a very long time). But that doesn’t mean we’re not looking. Astronomer Lucas Ellerbroek takes readers on a journey through the history of looking through telescopes and searching for exoplanets, discussing the discovery of the first in 1995. It’s the history of exoplanets and a search for alien life, speaking with some of the people at the frontiers of this field.’ — Unbound Worlds, Best Science Books of Summer 2017

‘Ellerbroek is the Jacques Cousteau of the universe.’ — Jelle Brandt Corstius

‘A compelling adventure full of surprising details that show why astronomy is so fascinating.’ — Professor Robbert Dijkgraaf

‘Ellerbroek describes this voyage of discovery with enthusiastic energy.’ — NRC Handelsblad

‘From the burning of Giordano Bruno in 1600 for stating the universe was infinite to the launching of the Kepler satellite in 2009, this book recounts the search for planets outside the Solar System, known as exoplanets. Ellerbroek blends history and personal interviews with today's leading researchers, resulting in a uniquely personable approach that does not skimp on science . . . This is an excellent read for anyone interested in exoplanet research and the astronomers who pursue it. A thorough list of references and chapter bibliographies provide direction for serious readers, though the text is accessible enough for the general reader as well . . . Highly recommended.’ — Choice