In this episode of Book Science, I dive into Firmament: The Hidden Science of Weather, Climate Change, and the Air That Surrounds Us by Simon Clark. It’s a beautifully written, surprisingly compact book that unpacks the atmosphere we live in—something so ever-present and invisible that we often forget it exists at all. Clark brings both expertise and charisma to the subject: he’s a UK-based science communicator with a PhD in atmospheric physics and a popular YouTube channel. His book explores foundational concepts in atmospheric science, from Boyle’s Law to global wind patterns, and weaves in the long arc of scientific discovery—from ancient meteo-astronomers to modern climatologists. It’s the kind of book that doesn’t just explain the science but tells the story of how we came to understand it, bringing in the people, experiments, and moments of insight that shaped our knowledge of the air.

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For this conversation, I am joined by Tessa Hill, a UC Davis professor, and Eric Simons, a writer and educator, to discuss their co-authored book, At Every Depth, that intertwines indigenous knowledge with Western science to highlight the urgency of ocean conservation amidst climate change. The book emerges from a collaborative writing process, structured to reflect varying depths of ocean familiarity, aiming to bridge the disconnect many feel towards ocean issues.

At Every Depth emphasizes the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems through relatable human stories, making complex changes in ocean environments more accessible and tangible. Additionally, the authors spotlight the vital role of indigenous perspectives in understanding these ecosystems, advocating for a richer dialogue around ocean conservation. Inspired by pioneers like Rachel Carson and the work of historical figures such as Marie Tharp, the authors assert that it’s not too late to protect the ocean, urging communities to unite in conservation efforts and share knowledge for a sustainable future. More resources and event updates can be found at their website, ateverydepth.com.

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Bruce Parker's book, The Power of the Sea, explores the critical role of prediction science in mitigating the impacts of natural disasters, emphasizing historical tragedies due to lack of warning. The Power of the Sea is a timely reminder that science organizations, like the NOAA in the US, are a tremendous benefit to society. NOAA is responsible for saving thousands of lives and billions of dollars in damages through developing predictive capabilities around natural disasters. The book displays a high level expertise and comprehensive approach. Recent examples, such as Hurricane Milton, underscore the importance of federal funding for scientific research amidst the current threat to such agencies. This episode serves as a vital exploration of the intersection between policy, science, and public safety, where this little appreciated miracle of science takes center stage in The Power of the Sea. The author, Dr. Bruce Parker, knows this world because he was formerly the was Chief Scientist for the National Ocean Service.

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