163 D6. Mélange Session (Posters)

Tuesday, 17 October 2023
8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Hall B

CARL SAGAN’S COSMOS: A PERSONAL VOYAGE [INTO GEOLOGY]

Paper number: 163-15
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Authors

Abstract

Cosmos (1980) by Carl E. Sagan, while not a “geology” book per se, had an unparalleled impact by inspiring a generation to choose careers in the physical sciences. Published as a companion guide to the Peabody-award-winning PBS television series Cosmos: A Personal Voyage (1980), this remarkable book has been published in 119 editions and translated into at least 17 languages. Although the book mentions "geol*" relatively fewer times compared to other scientific disciplines, it takes on a new perspective today, with advancements in terrestrial-world exploration such as asteroid sample collections/returns and deflections to cometary landings and multiple, autonomous Lunar and Martian rovers. The book culminates with a captivating exploration of exotic terrestrial worlds and delves into the realm of probable lifeforms that could potentially inhabit them—a perfect melding of the physical sciences. The book and series had a profound impact on the X-generation of children who were fortunate to have science-inspired Baby Boomer parents. It acted as a powerful catalyst, igniting their fascination with science and nurturing a deep interest in scientific pursuits as both a potential career and a lifelong passion. Even today, the book remains in print, ranking highly in the scientific reference (#3) and astronomy (#10) categories on Amazon. Additionally, the television series itself, including Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey(2014) and Cosmos: Possible Worlds (2020), continues to promote science and entice young viewers to embark on scientific pursuits, including geology. The enduring "Sagan Effect" persists as the once-young readers and viewers, now middle-aged, pass on their enthusiasm to the next generation of scientists who will be well-versed in geology, astronomy, physics, chemistry, and biology. As an embodiment of merged scientific disciplines, Cosmos symbolizes the power of knowledge, curiosity, and the unrelenting quest to understand the cosmos and our place in it.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 55, No. 6

doi: 10.1130/abs/2023AM-390442

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