From time immemorial we have gazed upward in wonder, pondering the mysteries of the heavens and seeking to unravel them. From the ancient Greeks and Romans who named the planets for their gods to the scientists of today who probe the farthest reaches of the solar system, we have always been fascinated by our corner of the Milky Way. And this authoritative, lavishly illustrated volume shows us how astonishing and varied it is. A chronicle of cosmic history as well as an account of human discovery, this book captures the awe and drama of distant worlds we are only beginning to understand. It is a book that encompasses literally everything under the Sun.-- From cover.