Out of the Cradle : Exploring the Frontiers Beyond Earth

"Earth is the cradle of humanity, but one cannot live in the cradle forever."-Konstantin Tsiolkovsky

The adventure has begun. The first fledgling steps off the planet have been taken: a satellite, man in space, the first walk on the moon, space stations, a shuttle.

A book of science fact and probability, Out of the Cradle stunningly visualizes the immediate future and the decades ahead. Astronomer William K. Hartmann explores the new landmarks within our reach and projects how the realms of space will open not only to astronauts and scientists, but to visitors, workers and, eventually, settlers.

These extraordinary adventures are projected in 120 mind-expanding, full-color paintings. The landscapes, technology, and lifestyles of the final frontier take shape with every page: solar collectors orbit, beaming energy to Earth below; lunar mining operations collect the raw materials to build and fuel settlements; robot probes scout the nether regions of unlivable atmospheres.

The great triumphs of technology and exploration begin not as full-fledged plans, but as the dreams and hypotheses of bold thinkers. As economic and environmental pressures build on Earth, these dreams become an essential alternative. This book offers a crystal gaze into the future, unfolding grand possibilities for new tools, new societies, and a new way of life.