Where to start
Cosmos
2 versions · originally a book, 1980
Cosmos is a sweeping, multidisciplinary narrative that synthesizes the history of scientific discovery with our existential place in the universe.
✦ Most fans start here
Cosmos (1980)
The original novel
✦ Start hereCosmos
Carl Sagan · Book · 1980
Cosmos (1980) offers Carl Sagan’s original, intimate prose, providing a foundational exploration of how human civilization and scientific progress have evolved together throughout our long journey of discovery.
2014 series
Cosmos
Ann Druyan · Series · 2014
Cosmos (2014) utilizes Neil deGrasse Tyson’s narration to visually translate complex scientific concepts like gravity and space-time, making the grand scale of the universe accessible through modern storytelling techniques.
Common questions
Should I read the book Cosmos before watching the 2014 television series?
You do not need to read the 1980 book Cosmos before watching the 2014 television series. Both works provide an independent look at the universe, though the book offers a more detailed exploration of the themes and scientific concepts originally presented by Carl Sagan.
Is the 2014 television series Cosmos a direct adaptation of the 1980 book?
The 2014 television series Cosmos is a spiritual successor to the original work. While it draws inspiration from the 1980 book Cosmos by Carl Sagan, it updates the scientific findings and visual storytelling to reflect advancements made in the decades following the publication of the original text.
What order should I consume the book and television versions of Cosmos?
There is no required order for consuming the 1980 book Cosmos and the 2014 television series. You can start with either version depending on whether you prefer a deep reading experience or a modern visual presentation of the same scientific principles and cosmic history.
How long is the original 1980 book Cosmos?
The 1980 book Cosmos by Carl Sagan is a comprehensive volume that spans several hundred pages. It covers a wide range of topics including the evolution of the universe, the history of science, and the potential for life beyond Earth, providing a foundational text for the entire franchise.