The Secret Life of the Universe: An Astrobiologist's Search for the Origins and Frontiers of Life

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Nathalie A. Cabrol

The Secret Life of the Universe

An Astrobiologist's Search for the Origins and Frontiers of Life

Nathalie A. Cabrol

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Paperback

Forthcoming
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English

Simon & Schuster
28 October 2025

Mathematics & Sciences; Astronomy, space & time; Space science

‘A highly readable, entertaining and mind-expanding read from a formidable scientist’ iNews

How did life begin on Earth? Could it exist on other planets? Or are we alone in the universe?

In recent years, incredible breakthroughs have revolutionised our understanding of the cosmos. New discoveries include the existence of millions of exoplanets, many of which could be a potential habitat for extraterrestrial life. Nathalie A. Cabrol, celebrated astrobiologist and director of the Carl Sagan Center at the SETI Institute, is the perfect guide to this golden age of astronomy.

The Secret Life of the Universe starts with the beginning of life on our own planet, before embarking on an exhilarating tour of the Solar System and beyond. This dazzling book explores the conditions and habitats where life may be found, and searches for answers to questions that have preoccupied humankind for centuries.

‘A mind-altering and exhilarating read’

Helen Macdonald, author of H is for Hawk

‘An enthralling read . . . it’s sure to captivate readers from start to finish’

BBC Sky at Night

By: Nathalie A. Cabrol
Imprint: Simon & Schuster
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 198mm, Width: 130mm, Spine: 20mm
ISBN: 9781398531321
ISBN 10: 1398531324
Pages: 320
Publication Date: 28 October 2025
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Nathalie A. Cabrol is a French American explorer and astrobiologist and the director of the Carl Sagan Center at the SETI Institute. She researches habitability and life beyond Earth, develops science exploration strategies for NASA for Mars and Titan, designs robotic field tests, and leads projects in planetary science and astrobiology. Cabrol documents life’s adaptation to extreme environments and the effects of rapid climate change. She has written over six hundred peer-reviewed publications and conference proceedings and has published four books on planetary science. Cabrol also holds the women’s world record for free and scuba diving at altitude. Born in France, she lives in California.