Popular science writer Ferris presents a history of astronomy for the general reader. Coverage extends from a description of the earth-centered models of the universe developed by early astronomers to Stephen Hawking's approach to quantum theory. This reprint of a 1988 William Morrow hardcover edition features a new preface by the author and an updated Addendum.

1. Space. The dome of heaven -- Raising (and lowering) the roof -- The discovery of the Earth -- The sun worshipers -- The world in retrograde -- Newton's reach -- A plumb line to the sun -- Deep space -- Island universes -- Einstein's sky -- The expansion of the universe. 2. Time. Sermons in stone -- The age of the Earth -- The evolution of atoms and stars. 3. Creation. The quantum and its discontents -- Rumors of perfection -- The axis of history -- The origin of the universe -- Mind and matter -- The persistence of mystery -- Addendum to the perennial edition.