Space Oddities

An eye-opening and accessible account of the latest as-yet-inexplicable phenomena of the universe – oddities that could transform our understanding of the fundamental nature of reality.

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'A cracking tale of particle physics and cosmology . . . Space Oddities is a rare joy – enlightening, thrilling and inspiring.' – New Scientist

'As fascinating as its title suggests . . . Cliff recounts with vivid clarity the stories of some of the most striking oddnesses that have lit up the landscape of modern physics.' – Philip Pullman

Newly discovered strangenesses could transform our understanding of the fundamentals of physics – and of the nature of reality. In this eye-opening account, CERN experimental physicist Harry Cliff takes the reader on a tour of a new universe . . .

Something strange is going on in the cosmos. Scientists are uncovering a catalogue of weird phenomena that simply can’t be explained by our long-established theories of the universe. Particles with unbelievable energies are bursting from beneath the Antarctic ice. Unknown forces seem to be tugging on the basic building blocks of matter. Stars are flying away from us far faster than anyone can explain.

In Space Oddities, Harry Cliff provides a riveting look at the universe’s most confounding puzzles. In a journey that spans continents, he meets the scientists hunting for answers, and asks: Are these anomalies mere accidents of measurement, or could they be pointing us toward vast, hidden worlds?

With wonder, clarity, and a dose of humour, Cliff leads us on a mind-expanding investigation of physics and cosmology as they transform before us.