Mysteries of the Universe: Answerable & Unanswerable Questions

From the origins of life to the cosmos’ fate, this illustrated book tackles unanswered questions with evidence-based answers and informed speculation.

What if the biggest questions in science had answers—or at least a Best Guess?

From the origins of life to the fate of the cosmos, Mysteries of the Universe takes curious minds on a thrilling journey through the known, the unknown, and the unknowable. Each of the 14 chapters poses a question—Does alien life exist? Is time travel possible? How did the universe begin… and how might it end? and delivers either a clear, evidence-based answer or the most informed speculation that science can offer.

Accessible and richly illustrated with nearly 200 visuals, this book is perfect for anyone aged 13 to 113 with a thirst for cosmic curiosity. Whether you're a budding scientist, a seasoned stargazer, or just someone who’s ever wondered ‘Does astrology actually work?’ you’ll find yourself captivated by the blend of clarity, wonder, and imagination.

Two appendices discuss how evidence should be assessed and how astronomers measure distances to stars and galaxies.

And in a nod to the FREE GIFTS offered by the comics of the 1950s and 1960s, the book contains a science fiction short story as a thank you to those who buy a copy.

Some mysteries are solved. Others are still waiting. But all of them are worth exploring.

DR PETER ALTMAN trained as a biochemist and now works as a science writer and speaker. His areas of special interest include the history of science, cosmology, biochemistry and photography. He is the Founder and Chairman of the Bricket Wood Science Group, and a member of the Magic Circle in London. He has held 2 Guinness World Records (fastest journey round the London Underground; fastest journey round the Moscow Metro).

Also by Peter Altman: Astounding Facts about the Universe; Amazing Discoveries in Science