“Every aspect of Nature reveals a deep mystery and touches our sense of wonder and awe. Those afraid of the universe as it really is, those who pretend to nonexistent knowledge and envision a Cosmos centered on human beings will prefer the fleeting comforts of superstition. They avoid rather than confront the world. But those with the courage to explore the weave and structure of the Cosmos, even where it differs profoundly from their wishes and prejudices, will penetrate its deepest mysteries.”

American astronomer, planetary scientist and science communicator

Carl Edward Sagan was an American astronomer, planetary scientist and science communicator. He worked at Harvard as an assistant professor before moving to Cornell University, where he became the David Duncan Professor of Astronomy and Space Sciences and directed the Laboratory for Planetary Studies. Sagan took an active role in the Mariner, Viking and Voyager programs. He also wrote more than 600 scientific papers and articles, along with several popular science books, beginning with The Cosmic Connection. His The Dragons of Eden won the Pulitzer Prize for General Nonfiction.