"Meteorites - the fragments of space debris that survive their fall to Earth - have much to tell us. They hold the answers to the complexities of star formation and can explain the earliest events in the birth of the solar system. They also may have brought to Earth the water in the oceans, gases of the atmosphere, and other essential ingredients for the evolution of life.". "This book is an expertly guided look at meteorites. The authors trace the formation and breakup of planets, asteroids, and comets from which meteorites have originated, their long journey through space, their fall to Earth, their recovery, and the wealth of information they hold for scientists. The authors discuss recent evidence from the "84001 Martin meteorite," which has raised provocative new questions about life on the red planet. Looking forward, the authors chart the exciting new era of planetary, asteroidal, and cometary exploration planned for this century." "The 250 color illustrations that illuminate the text present some of the most stunning images of these ancient voyagers."--BOOK JACKET.