Neil deGrasse Tyson is back with a fresh take on his first book, originally published in 1989. His updated work, titled Just Visiting This Planet: Further Scientific Adventures of Merlin From Omniscia, explores intriguing questions about the universe. This new edition, set to release on October 21, 2025, combines humor and science in a way that encourages curiosity.
Tyson’s fictional character, Merlin, from the Andromeda galaxy, returns to address questions on topics like planets, black holes, and even superheroes. In a recent interview, he emphasized how his early work shaped his approach to making science accessible. “This was the dawn of my scientific career,” he said. He wants readers to feel the excitement of learning rather than viewing science as a chore.
The hardcover version is packed with 350 pages of fun, witty responses to questions sourced from readers. Tyson pointed out that modern AI, like ChatGPT, often lacks the personality and engagement that a character like Merlin offers. He aims to make learning enjoyable, empowering readers to embrace scientific exploration.
Amid ongoing layoffs and budget cuts in many scientific fields, Tyson underscores the importance of supporting science. He warns that neglecting scientific funding could have dire consequences for society. “Science drives the innovations we often take for granted,” he says. This viewpoint aligns with recent data showing that U.S. spending on research has decreased, affecting the future of critical advancements.
Tyson carefully selected the questions for this version, replacing simpler ones that can be easily found online. He included more playful ones, like the classic “What if aliens blew up the moon?” By incorporating such engaging queries, he hopes to inspire a new generation of science enthusiasts.
Additionally, Tyson’s brother illustrated the book, adding a visual element to this updated exploration of science. Tyson recalls his childhood in New York City, where Halloween was an adventure of collecting vast amounts of candy—his favorites being Milky Way and Mars bars.
In a landscape where other countries are investing heavily in scientific research, Tyson believes the U.S. must prioritize science education and funding. “Excitement around science pays dividends,” he warns, urging readers to engage with scientific discovery.
Just Visiting This Planet promises to be a delightful and thought-provoking read, designed to ignite curiosity about the universe.
For more insights on the importance of scientific funding, check out this report from the National Science Foundation.
