The Big Splat, or How Our Moon Came to Be
Review: On the surface, this is a book that looks like it's just going to explain how the moon originated and the currently accepted theory that it happened after a massive collision with another astral body nearly the size of Mars. This book is much, much more than just that. Dana Mackenzie takes us ALL the way back to early Greek philosophers and how they viewed the moon and theorized it's existence. He then takes us step-by-step through time and human history to trace all major theories (okay - some minor ones too), scientific players, and general societal views about the moon.
Well over half of the first part of the book deals with the history of the science of the moon. That worked perfectly for me because The History of Science is in the top ten list of things I'm never tired of learning more about. The Big Splat ranks right up there with some of the best history of science books I've read. He talks about many famous scientists that nearly everyone has heard of, and discusses what they had to do with lunar studies and if/how they advanced the field. Some of the big names she hits are Aristotle, Galileo, George Darwin, Newton, and Kepler. Mackenzie also takes time with lesser known scientists and philosophers that have played a part in the story of the moon.
The last portion of the book brings us into the 20th century and our current understanding of lunar origins.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and more importantly, I learned a TON. Ever the magpie collector when it comes to knowledge, this one gave me many new insights, facts, and things to ponder and store away in my head to mull over later.
Here is a splendid little 3 minute video from The History Chanel showing and explaining the Thea collision theory:
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