Starquake by Robert L. Forward

Starquake by Robert L. Forward

Return to the surface of a neutron star in Starquake, Robert L. Forward's stunning sequel to the hard science fiction classic, Dragon's Egg. It is A.D. 2050, decades after humanity made first contact with the cheela, the intelligent beings living unimaginably fast lives on the star known as Dragon's Egg. Having absorbed human knowledge transmitted from orbit at an accelerated rate, the cheela civilization has blossomed, rapidly surpassing its human teachers in understanding and capability. But just as the human expedition prepares to depart, disaster strikes: a catastrophic starquake, a violent crustal shift on the neutron star, devastates the cheela's world, threatening their very existence. The human crew faces an agonizing choice – adhere to their plan and leave the cheela to face oblivion, or risk their own lives and resources in a desperate attempt to aid a civilization now both vastly superior and incredibly vulnerable. Forward masterfully blends cutting-edge physics with profound ethical dilemmas and compelling character drama.

Why You’ll Love This Book

Explore the mind-bending science behind life on a neutron star and the rapid evolution of the fascinating cheela. Experience the intense drama of a species facing cosmic catastrophe, grounded in scientific accuracy. Grapple with the profound ethical questions about intervention and responsibility faced by the human explorers.