Abstract
THE question discussed in this little book used formerly to be considered in every popular book on astronomy, and it was generally supposed that all the planets were very probably inhabited by some sort of intelligent beings. The progress of astrophysics has thrown a great deal of light on the physical constitution of the planets, and this excellent summary of modern telescope-work, and of the consequences of the heat and light received by the planets and the force of gravity at their surfaces, is therefore most useful. Mercury and the outer planets are easily disposed of, and Mr. Maunder even considers what would be the condition of Jupiter and Saturn if cooled sufficiently to become solid at the surface. The results are not encouraging.
Are the Planets Inhabited?
By E. Walter Maunder. Pp. iv + 166. (London and New York: Harper and Brothers, 1913.) Price 2s. 6d. net.
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Are the Planets Inhabited? . Nature 91, 605–606 (1913). https://doi.org/10.1038/091605a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/091605a0
