New Books in Science Dagomar Degroot, "Ripples on the Cosmic Ocean: An Environmental History of Our Place in the Solar System" (Harvard UP, 2025)
Jan 13, 2026
Dagomar Degroot, an environmental historian and author, dives into his book Ripples on the Cosmic Ocean, exploring the links between our planet and the solar system. He discusses how Martian dust storms influenced Cold War dynamics and how cosmic events have shaped human innovation. Degroot raises ethical questions about altering other worlds and warns of contamination risks from space exploration. He also highlights the vital role of the Sun, recounts near-misses from solar flares, and emphasizes the need for global cooperation in managing existential risks.
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Focus On Non‑Cyclical 'Ripples' In The Cosmos
- 'Ripples' are non-cyclical, surprising changes in the solar system that have major human consequences.
- Degroot focuses on these anomalies because their unexpectedness amplifies historical effects.
Earth Is Part Of A Dynamic Solar Environment
- The sun and invisible solar system processes shape Earth's environment in profound ways.
- Unexpected, non-cyclical events in the solar system have outsized historical impacts on humanity.
Apollo Quarantine Was Flawed And Politicized
- Apollo quarantine systems aimed to stop lunar microbes from reaching Earth but contained major procedural failures.
- Dagomar Degroot argues officials lied and prioritized prestige over robust containment during Apollo.
