Tommy Gold était un polymathe et astrophysicien américano-autrichien dont les travaux en cosmologie et en science des neutrons ont modifié notre compréhension de l'univers. Il a co-proposé la théorie de l'état stationnaire de l'univers et a interprété correctement les pulsars comme des étoiles à neutrons en rotation. Sa profonde intuition scientifique et sa rigueur d'esprit ouvert ont souvent remis en question les hypothèses établies, suscitant la controverse et laissant une marque indélébile sur la science internationale.
Focusing on the extraordinary contributions of Thomas Gold, this account delves into the life and work of a notable astrophysicist from the late 20th century. Edited by Simon Mitton, a Cambridge astrophysicist and science historian, the book draws from Gold's autobiography to provide insights into his groundbreaking ideas and achievements in the field of astrophysics.
Exploring the origins of life, the author presents a theory suggesting that the deep hot biosphere may be the cradle of life and questions whether barren planets like Mars harbor similar ecosystems. Additionally, the book posits the existence of vast reserves of hydrocarbons rising from the Earth's depths, potentially offering a significant source of gas and petroleum. These provocative ideas are bolstered by an increasing amount of scientific evidence, challenging conventional beliefs about life and energy resources.