What to read this week: Ripples on the Cosmic Ocean by Dagomar Degroot

image via New Scientist

February 25, 2026, 6:00 PM

• •Degroot's book highlights how studying other planets, like Venus, has informed our understanding of Earth's climate and potential dangers.
• •The book examines the historical impact of cosmic events, such as asteroid strikes, on human civilization.
• •Degroot emphasizes the need for a future of space exploration that benefits everyone, not just a privileged few.
• •The book also covers the impact of historical figures like Immanuel Velikovsky

Dagomar Degroot's book, "Ripples on the Cosmic Ocean," explores the profound influence of the solar system on human history. The book argues that understanding our cosmic environment, from Venus's greenhouse effect to potential asteroid strikes, has been crucial for our survival and progress. Degroot emphasizes the importance of looking beyond Earth for insights into our planet's climate and potential threats, advocating for a future where space exploration benefits all of humanity. He also acknowledges the challenges of current space exploration efforts, especially with the involvement of private companies, and the need for a more equitable approach to the cosmos.

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