Library News

The 2026 One Book selection process is underway, and we’re thrilled to feature Under Alien Skies by astronomer and science communicator Dr. Phil Plait as a finalist. Plait, known to many as the “Bad Astronomer,” blends awe, imagination and science to explore what it might feel like to stand on the surface of alien worlds.

We caught up with Dr. Plait to learn more about what inspires his cosmic curiosity and how he brings the universe down to Earth for readers of all ages.

What first sparked your interest in space and astronomy?
I actually don’t know. I’ve been fascinated by science and astronomy since literally before I can remember. But when I was six, my family went to Florida to watch the Apollo 15 launch. That definitely cemented my love of space.

Many people are fascinated by the idea of extraterrestrial life. What drew you to the subject, not just as a scientist, but as a storyteller?
I've always loved science fiction. I spent a lot of my childhood watching old black-and-white sci-fi and monster movies. My adulthood, too. A lot of astronomers are like that. And now that we know alien planets are real, that story isn’t just fiction anymore. That’s very exciting to talk about.

You’ve written extensively across books, blogs and TV. How has your view of the universe changed over the years?
A lot. When I got my Ph.D., we hadn’t yet found planets around stars like the Sun. Now we know of thousands. We’ve found massive black holes in every big galaxy, seen galaxies at the edge of the visible universe, and discovered thousands of icy bodies beyond Neptune. My view has expanded so much I barely recognize my younger self’s perspective.

Were there any skywatching moments that left you in awe?
Absolutely. I’ve seen comets so bright I could spot them at noon, all the planets in our solar system, and even the galaxy I studied for my Ph.D. during a trip to Australia. Every clear, dark night gives me a little bit of that wonder again. That helps fuel my writing.

What might readers be surprised to learn about your journey?
I was a terrible student at first. I dropped out after my first year of college, took a year off, and then transferred schools. I wasn’t ready. I share this because people often ask if it’s still possible to pursue astronomy if you struggled in school. It is. Sometimes you just need to find what works for you.

“Under Alien Skies” imagines what it would feel like to stand on other planets. Why take such a human-centered approach?
I’ve always wanted my own starship. So imagining what it would feel like to stand on Pluto or orbit a double-star system just felt natural. Imagination plays a huge role in science, and blending that with what we know brings it to life.

How do you balance rigorous science with imagination?
I start with real science. That alone is amazing and could fill more than one book. When I do extrapolate, I try to be clear about where the science ends and the imagination begins.

If you could teleport to one alien world from the book for a day, where would you go?
That’s tough. I’d want to stay a year. But if I had to choose, I couldn’t resist Saturn. To sail through the rings and see the moons and icy particles up close would be any astronomer’s dream.

How can books like yours inspire readers in an age of misinformation?
Science is more than facts. It’s discovery, passion and understanding. If this book encourages someone to explore the universe and ask questions, I consider that a big win.

What advice would you give young readers who look up at the stars and wonder what’s out there?
Keep doing that. Find others who share your curiosity. Read books, follow science news, and never lose that passion. I’ve been doing this for decades, and I still get a thrill just being under the night sky.

Stay tuned as we continue highlighting the 2026 One Book finalists. To learn more, visit SarasotaCountyLibraries.org/OneBook.

About the Program:

One Book, One Community is an annual reading initiative that brings Sarasota County together through a shared story. Each year, the committee selects one title that sparks connection, conversation and discovery across all ages.