The Physics and Astronomy of Science Fiction

The great technological advances of the 20th century inspired the science fiction genre. However, the stories told went well beyond the discoveries and inventions of the day, and on toward distant worlds and a distant future. From episodes of Lost in Space to those of Fringe, and from the works of Isaac Asimov to Stephen Baxter, this work covers examples from a wide variety of films, television series, novels and short stories focusing on the underlying concepts of physics and astronomy within them. In addition to addressing the accuracy and plausibility of their presentations, this book endeavors to answer whether it is possible to travel to other stars systems, to travel in time, encounter intelligent and emotional robots, or teleport to your favorite vacation spot.