Since the dawn of civilization, humanity has turned its eyes to the skies, seeking to unravel the mysteries of our existence: Why is the sky blue? Why do stars twinkle? What are black holes? What are dark matter and dark energy? How did it all begin, and how will it all end?
With questions in mind, this book provides answers. If any questions remain, it will guide you to the frontier of our ignorance, to the very edge of what we know.
Our journey begins close to home, exploring the solar system and neighboring planets. We will then venture into deep space, exploring stars and alien worlds. Afterward, we will take a tour of our galaxy, then leap to distant galaxies and the far reaches of the Universe. Through our exploration, we will unravel the mysteries of the cosmos, gaining a deep understanding of our place in the vast expanse of space and time.
Why "Space 101"? This is not a dense academic book. No advanced degree is required. It is a gateway to the wonders of astronomy for anyone with a curious mind. Think of "Space 101" as your starting point—a fundamental guide to the inspiring realm of space, designed to broaden your perspective on the Universe and ignite your curiosity.
Since the dawn of civilization, humanity has turned its eyes to the skies, seeking to unravel the mysteries of our existence: Why is the sky blue? Why do stars twinkle? What are black holes? What are dark matter and dark energy? How did it all begin, and how will it all end?
If you have questions, this book has answers. It will lead you to the frontier of our ignorance, to the very edge of what we know.
Our journey begins close to home, exploring the solar system and neighboring planets. We will then venture into deep space, exploring stars and alien worlds. Afterward, we will take a tour of our galaxy, then leap to distant galaxies and the far reaches of the Universe. Through our exploration, we will unravel the mysteries of the cosmos, revealing how we discover them while gaining a deep understanding of our place in the vast expanse of space and time.
Why "Space 101"? This is not a dense academic book. No advanced degree is required. It is a gateway to the wonders of astronomy for anyone with a curious mind. Think of "Space 101" as your starting point—a basic guide designed to broaden your perspective on the Universe and ignite your curiosity.
Halim Ashkar was born in Lebanon in 1993. His interest in Astronomy started at the age of 7 when he discovered an old encyclopedia in his parent’s house and fell on the Astronomy section. He went to school in Lebanon until the age of 17. Due to the lack of Astrophysics degrees in his country, and his uncertainty of travel, he decided to start with his plan B in life. He did a BE in Mechanical Engineering and a minor in Physics opening the door for a future in Physics and Astrophysics. He then traveled to Paris to pursue his passion for space sciences, his Plan A. He was awarded a Master’s in Astrophysics from the Paris Observatory and Paris Science et Lettres University. Three years later he was awarded a Ph. D degree in Astroparticle Physics and Cosmology from the Paris-Saclay University and the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission. In the same year, he was awarded French citizenship. Halim Ashkar is now a fellow researcher in Astrophysics at the prestigious École Polytechnique since 2021.
Aside from his primary research role and his hobby of DJing, Halim’s genuine enthusiasm lies in sharing his passion for space sciences. This inspired the creation of his first book: "Space 101 - Astronomy in Simple Words."