This is the story of a curious boy becoming a prolific scientist. Perhaps the first beginnings of research work can be seen in the detailed birdwatching in Laurits' boyhood? Or in the systematic registration of buses that passed through his home village?
The scenes of life written with pleasant humor at times, sometimes with thoughtful seriousness, and sometimes with the utmost detail, are set against the background of the development of Estonian astronomy since the 19th century. The author highlights numerous cultural connections and points of contact with significant people. Inevitably, the broader background of the story is Estonian history, especially its twists and turns in the 20th century.
Just as the author's roots, who lives in Tartu County, extend to the limestone soils of Northern Estonia, the history and culture of humankind extends to the Solar System in the Milky Way galaxy. The Milky Way, in turn, is one of hundreds of billions or trillions of galaxies in the Universe, whose construction and laws seem to encode the appearance of a conscious observer.
The book of one such observer's 60-year journey on planet Earth could interest those who care about the heavens. It is also recommended to readers interested in culture, science, or life.
Juhani Püttsepp will lead the talk with the author.