{"product_id":"9781316379387","title":"The Drake Equation: Estimating the Prevalence of Extraterrestrial Life through the Ages","description":"In this compelling book, leading scientists and historians explore the Drake Equation, which guides modern astrobiology's search for life beyond Earth. First used in 1961 as the organising framework for a conference in Green Bank, West Virginia, it uses seven factors to estimate the number of extraterrestrial civilisations in our galaxy. Using the equation primarily as a heuristic device, this engaging text examines the astronomical, biological, and cultural factors that determine the abundance or rarity of life beyond Earth and provides a thematic history of the search for extraterrestrial life. Logically structured to analyse each of the factors in turn, and offering commentary and critique of the equation as a whole, contemporary astrobiological research is placed in a historical context. Each factor is explored over two chapters, discussing the pre-conference thinking and a modern analysis, to enable postgraduates and researchers to better assess the assumptions that guide their research.","brand":"Cambridge University Press","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47133564240112,"sku":"9781316379387","price":76.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0737\/7593\/9824\/files\/9781316379387_p0.jpg?v=1763707973","url":"https:\/\/shop-qa.barnesandnoble.com\/products\/9781316379387","provider":"Barnes \u0026 Noble (DEV)","version":"1.0","type":"link"}