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Bad Astronomy
« DftS! talk Monday night in Denver
Antivax kills. »

Alien Hunter book/CD giveaway!

It’s time for a new BA Giveaway! And this time we have a twofer.


Seth Shostak giveaway items
Alien not included.


Seth Shostak is an astronomer who hunts for aliens… with SETI. He just wrote a book called Confessions of an Alien Hunter, and it’s wonderful. It’s a fun discussion of looking for other civilizations among the stars and Seth’s involvement with SETI. In my opinion this is his best book yet, and that’s saying something.

I also have a two-CD set of Seth’s podcast/radio show "Are We Alone". It has recordings of several episodes, including one with moi — I do a Skeptical Sunday bit with Seth called "Brains on Vacation".

Both the book and the CD are signed by Seth his own self, and I put my signature on the CD too (the book actually has an official "Are We Alone" sticker that Seth signed for me because I stupidly forgot to get him to sign the book directly when he was here in Boulder last month). These items will be given away separately. I may throw in extra junk I have lying around my office too.

So how do you win these fabulous things? Easy.

All you have to do is leave a comment on this post. Just post something in the comments below, like "Phil rulez and Seth droolz" or something equally elegant. It doesn’t matter what you post as long as you post something. On Friday, May 8 at noon Mountain time (UTC – 6), I will generate a random number, and the person who leaves that number comment wins the book. I’ll then pick a second number, and that person wins the CD set. I’ll send the winners emails notifying them, and they’ll have until Monday May 11th at noon MT to get back to me. I’ll pick another commenter if I don’t hear back by then. That person will have until noon the next day to get back to me, and so one, until winners are chosen.

Here are some rules for you. READ THESE. Violate them and I’ll send your email address and IP to the ShamWOW guy.

1) Leave a comment ONLY ONCE. I trust you folks, but I feel I must make this warning: No matter how tempting it is to followup on someone else’s comment, don’t do it. Anyone caught doing that (or cheating in any way) not only won’t win the book, but your comment will simply be deleted. Be ye fairly warned, says I.

2) Make sure that you enter a valid email address in the form when you leave your comment. If you don’t, you won’t win, since email is how I will contact the winner. Since I’m busy and bore easily I won’t try to figure out your address; if there’s no valid email, I’ll simply pick another winner.

3) To be fair, if you’re an actual friend of mine IRL then please don’t apply. I’ll leave it up to your own judgment if you fall in that category or not.

4) Anyone else is eligible, including all you foreigner types.

Remember, you have until noon Friday! So comment away!

Share

May 4th, 2009 7:00 AM by Phil Plait in About this blog, Cool stuff | 840 comments | RSS feed | Trackback >

840 Responses to “Alien Hunter book/CD giveaway!”

  1. 1.   Ian Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:04 am

    Will this book provide advice on how to convince your friends that Venus is a UFO?

  2. 2.   Reid Alsworth Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:06 am

    Free stuff? Gimme!

  3. 3.   Ambarussa Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:06 am

    Mola. Yo quiero uno.

  4. 4.   Tikifire Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:07 am

    You rock BA!

  5. 5.   neil hopkins Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:09 am

    Hurrah for Bad Astronomy giveaways!

  6. 6.   Cameron Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:11 am

    It seems that I should post later, because such a low number should be unlikely to randomly appear. However, that’s a stupid statement, because all posts are equally likely to be selected. Just a fun little look into my psyche.

    Oh, and gimme gimme gimme.

  7. 7.   Søren Mors Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:11 am

    Gratis ting er vejen frem

  8. 8.   corrie Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:12 am

    I’m having a baby sometime in the next month. I think I need something good to listen to during labor.

  9. 9.   VonGoober Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:15 am

    Yeah baby! Astronomy is sexy!! :)

  10. 10.   Mark Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:16 am

    I’m all up in your blog, leaving a comment for your contest.

  11. 11.   Tom Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:18 am

    I know a different “B. A.” who’s cuter, but she doesn’t have her own website. I figure you’re both equally awesome!

  12. 12.   Ewan Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:20 am

    /*insert witty comment here*/

  13. 13.   Hoonser Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:21 am

    Phil Plait is the greatest astronomer since Galileo.

  14. 14.   Adam Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:22 am

    I’m studying for the Florida Bar Exam. I’d like a distraction please!

  15. 15.   Matt Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:22 am

    That’s pretty cool. For some reason, alien hunting brings to mind some guy stalking through an alien planet with some fancy, futuristic blaster. Curse my over-active imagination!

  16. 16.   Raze Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:22 am

    Sweet. However, instead of whatever number comment this one is, I’d prefer my number in the drawing to be: Math.rand()*(sizeof 20090504_comments) :D

  17. 17.   Jojo Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:23 am

    I’m hoping you do a post on the upcoming Wallops Island launch. Also hoping I wn.

  18. 18.   Liz Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:23 am

    S.end E.lizabeth T.oys I.mmediately (?)

  19. 19.   Kevin G Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:24 am

    I, like Cameron feel that a low number is never randomly generated, but I feel I am DESTINED to win this time.!!!

  20. 20.   pabell Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:25 am

    B.A. ruleZ!

  21. 21.   Eli Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:26 am

    Might a well give it a go
    /roll

  22. 22.   CS Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:27 am

    I would love to win the book!

  23. 23.   Tom (H. Type) Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:31 am

    Daily BA Blog reader. Would like to be considered for the prize book.
    Love your Blog and Book.

  24. 24.   Bill Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:32 am

    I am an alien searching for intelligent life on Earth so I am getting a kick out of all these posts.

  25. 25.   Peter B Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:32 am

    Good old Collingwood for ever!

  26. 26.   Kristin C Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:33 am

    Now to figure out how to impress a random number generator…

  27. 27.   Dave C Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:35 am

    This book on aliens will abduct my free time.

  28. 28.   Andy Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:35 am

    Very interesting stuff!!!

  29. 29.   Mark Hansen Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:35 am

    Phil rulez and Seth droolz and Carrey’z a fool

  30. 30.   Simone Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:36 am

    I’m a foreigner…and I would love the book, too!!!
    And 15 is my lucky number!

  31. 31.   Mat Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:36 am

    I’m throwing my hat into the mixer

  32. 32.   Star Girl Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:37 am

    I listen to “Are We Alone” as a podcast, and would love to win either of the prizes! Also, the BA rocks.

  33. 33.   Sara Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:37 am

    Wonderfully insightful post ( fawning enough? ;)
    Thank you for the chance to win.

  34. 34.   Deb G. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:37 am

    Astronomers (and alien overlords) are welcome at my house any time. :-) Breakfast provided with advanced warning.

  35. 35.   Aaron Adelman Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:39 am

    If you don’t give me the book or CD, the aliens will be very disappointed with you. :)

  36. 36.   Dirk Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:41 am

    Long, long ago I played a game called “Alien Hunter” on my Amiga.

  37. 37.   Geran Smith Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:41 am

    This will hopefully tell me how to keep the aliens from harvesting my seeds. They make it really hard to grow my pumpkins when all my seeds get taken.

  38. 38.   Optimus Primate Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:41 am

    I can has kewl prizes?

  39. 39.   Evil Bender Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:42 am

    I would totally love some of this cool swag!

  40. 40.   Lledowyn Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:44 am

    Please make sure to send me the fabulous prizes to me post haste, since it is obvious that I shall win this contest… ;-) Well a guy can dream anyway right. :)

  41. 41.   Steven H Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:45 am

    Seth rulez!!! Are we alone is a great show. Everyone should check it out. Oh and as an aside, Phil’s OK too :-)

  42. 42.   K. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:46 am

    I would very much like a book and/or CD, please :)

  43. 43.   Nathan Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:47 am

    Most excellent dudemeister. Gimmie some baby

  44. 44.   Trina Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:47 am

    Free Stuff. YAY!

  45. 45.   João Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:49 am

    I want BOTH items!

  46. 46.   BobK Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:49 am

    Very cool idea! Thanks in advance for the free book.

  47. 47.   John Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:50 am

    Target the high metallicity systems, FTW!

  48. 48.   Per Hultvqist Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:51 am

    I’ll never win anyway, RNG:s hate me…but that doesn’t stop me from trying…

  49. 49.   Moth Eyes Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:51 am

    Last time, I tried to reverse engineer the pseudo-random number generator on your computer and it didn’t work out so well.

    This time, I contacted my buddy Xzch{click}rsbllt{click} (he’s from Zchblt 4, and they don’t have vowels there) to abduct the prize from your place. Shklyy said shklyy (they don’t have genders either) would try to get there, but had to make a crop circle outside a crazy person’s house first.

  50. 50.   Phillip Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:52 am

    Please be the random number!

  51. 51.   cope Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:52 am

    Those would be nice to own for sure. However, even if I fail to win, I will still make my multiple daily visits to your fine web log.

  52. 52.   CM Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:53 am

    Who needs this stuff? I have an alien in trapped in my pantry.

  53. 53.   mhofer Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:53 am

    Again, Central Control really wants these things off the market, so you should just send one (or another, or BOTH!) to me.

    ribbet

  54. 54.   Bryan Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:53 am

    I run Seti@home, so I would love to win this…

  55. 55.   Southseeker Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:53 am

    Great contest! and thank you for allowing this for foreign fans :)

  56. 56.   madge Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:54 am

    Ooh Ooh Pick ME! Pick ME! and as an added suck up THANK YOU for the email Phil :)

  57. 57.   Scott G. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:55 am

    Phil droolz and Seth rulez! Wait, did I get that right?

  58. 58.   Chris Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:55 am

    Hope this is better than Death from the Skies……I kid, I kid….

  59. 59.   Flo Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:56 am

    I would prefer free BEER, but still:

    Einem geschenkten Gaul schaut man nicht ins Maul… (as ze Germans say)

  60. 60.   Night Janitor Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:56 am

    I first discovered the world of BA through listening to Are We Alone and for that I am very grateful.

    Cheers!

  61. 61.   Lektu Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:56 am

    Seems like a very interesting book. Let’s try lady luck.

  62. 62.   Mike Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:57 am

    I have now posted something…anything.

  63. 63.   Joe Meils Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:57 am

    The chances of me winning this are the same as contacting the Vulcans.

  64. 64.   Dean Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:58 am

    Fnord.

  65. 65.   L Ron Hubbub Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:59 am

    How is babby formed?

  66. 66.   Stuart Greig Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:59 am

    I was listening to Seth plugging his book on his podcast the other day so would love to get it.

  67. 67.   Monkey Deathcar Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:59 am

    I want to win a booook

  68. 68.   Paul Edwards Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:01 am

    Me want win book. Me want win CD. Win good, lose bad.

  69. 69.   Philip Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:02 am

    Woo Hoo!

  70. 70.   Shane Emmons Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:02 am

    me please!

  71. 71.   Steve Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:03 am

    Please send me this information. My intergalactic friends will get a kick out of reading this.

  72. 72.   Mike Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:03 am

    If chess is just a game, then music is just noise.

  73. 73.   Anderson Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:03 am

    Hey, Phil, here my confession:
    I’d love to win this helluva great giveaway!

  74. 74.   Jeff Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:04 am

    Phil rulez and Seth droolz.

    Did I get that right?

  75. 75.   Lewknukem Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:04 am

    Phil droolz and Seth rulez.

    Did I get that right?

  76. 76.   Monkey Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:05 am

    Bring on the goodies!

  77. 77.   TBRP Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:05 am

    ooo ooo! Pick me! PICK ME!!! The odds look decent if you cut off all the applicants after me…

  78. 78.   Guysmiley Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:06 am

    I want to believe.

    That I can win a prize.

  79. 79.   Martin C Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:06 am

    mmmmm aliens.

  80. 80.   Dan Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:07 am

    hmm …. Free book or CD, I’m in! (I are Canadian foreigner to)

  81. 81.   Tim L Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:07 am

    I’m a foreigner type so I’m included.

  82. 82.   Magnus Björk Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:07 am

    Yes please! [something more witty here]

  83. 83.   Blenster Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:07 am

    Thanks for the contest and the kick-ass website… I’ve been reading off and on since finding the site to use in response to that idiotic FOX TV Moon Hoax show. I haven’t bothered to comment until bribed, though… ;-)

  84. 84.   John K. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:08 am

    Do pick me, kind sir.

  85. 85.   RichardS Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:08 am

    A competition – how exciting! Apologies to everyone else for reducing their odds :-P

  86. 86.   Donald Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:08 am

    I can’t think of anything funny to post, so I’m not gonna enter.

  87. 87.   R.W. Thomas Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:09 am

    Phil rulez and Seth droolz

  88. 88.   Orion Hunter Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:09 am

    She got the keys to my Ferrari, because aliens ate my Buick (ref. T. Dolby)

  89. 89.   Sheryl Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:10 am

    I would love to read his book. If I don’t win, I talk our local library into purchasing it. Just like I did your book so I could check it out. LOL.
    Sheryl

  90. 90.   Brian Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:10 am

    I would have entered, but I didn’t know what to post…

    Oh.

    Cool!

  91. 91.   Bowman Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:11 am

    Its full of stars!

  92. 92.   Peter Eldergill Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:11 am

    Book gimmie to to me

    Me book read good!

    Pete

  93. 93.   MDF Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:13 am

    I ran SETI@Home for years. Burned up a couple of computers doing it, too. Oh, the failure of overclocking just to post higher numbers….

  94. 94.   Ray Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:13 am

    Oh! Oh! Pick me! Pick me!

  95. 95.   Sunner Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:14 am

    I suck at witty comments, I’ll just leave it at that :)

  96. 96.   Presence Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:16 am

    i love aliens.

  97. 97.   Mister Earl Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:17 am

    Would you ship to me over in Iraq, were I to win one?

  98. 98.   The Science Pundit Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:17 am

    generic comment

  99. 99.   dargndorp Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:18 am

    Pick me!

  100. 100.   Jamie Mueller Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:19 am

    Post

  101. 101.   Braxton Thomason Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:19 am

    GIVE ME FREE STUFF.

  102. 102.   Janiece Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:19 am

    Phil rulez, Seth droolz.

    Except I’m wondering now if Phil is actually a “Grody Jody,” instead.

  103. 103.   Cara Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:21 am

    Post

  104. 104.   Mario Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:21 am

    All glory to the hypno toad.

  105. 105.   William Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:22 am

    Is it geeky of me to have named my WoW hunter pet Shostak?

  106. 106.   David Petticrew Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:23 am

    Free stuff. Yes please!

  107. 107.   SF Reader Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:24 am

    I *really* want to hear a pun-off between Phil and Seth. Molly has been catching up lately, too.

    Dennis

  108. 108.   Carver Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:24 am

    you should give stuff away more often

  109. 109.   isnochys Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:24 am

    Please pick me!!
    :)

  110. 110.   Vernon Balbert Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:25 am

    How was your mom’s birthday?

  111. 111.   Bobby Berry Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:25 am

    You are both interesting guys. Thanks.

  112. 112.   sean hogge Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:26 am

    I hear books are like portable text files with a built-in gui!

  113. 113.   Erik Jeppsson Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:27 am

    This is the random number you’re looking for.
    *sweeping hand gesture*

  114. 114.   Avenel Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:27 am

    Huge fan of ‘Are We Alone’. That is a geat podcast.

  115. 115.   mike Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:27 am

    Aiight. I’m game.

  116. 116.   jedipunk Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:27 am

    I will read to my kids at night.

  117. 117.   Geis Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:27 am

    Phil, I’m not your friend (at least not in real life) so that makes be eligible.

  118. 118.   Kevino Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:28 am

    Highly amusing, Captain.

  119. 119.   TS Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:28 am

    Well let’s pack up the kids
    and take a break, get away
    leave the hustle and bustle
    of living from day to day
    and I know that the crime
    in the city is getting worse

    So I’m going on down to
    the gun sale at the church

  120. 120.   Grand Fromage Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:28 am

    MEAT

  121. 121.   olaan Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:29 am

    There is no spoon.

  122. 122.   Daniel Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:30 am

    I’m a foreigner type!

  123. 123.   Hypatia Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:30 am

    Count me on it!!!

  124. 124.   r4m0n Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:30 am

    !!!

  125. 125.   Penguins55 Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:30 am

    Come on free stuff don’t fail me now

  126. 126.   rob Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:31 am

    i have never been happier to not be your friend Phil!

    hmm…friends or books, friends or books?

  127. 127.   The Chemist Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:32 am

    I really should be studying right now.

  128. 128.   Bryce Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:32 am

    I wants ta winz!

  129. 129.   mindy Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:32 am

    sounds wonderful thanks for the giveaway

  130. 130.   Matt T Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:32 am

    doin’ my bit to reduce everyone’s chance of winning. you’re welcome.

  131. 131.   Carl Cohen Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:32 am

    Please send me this stuff! I want to know where I can find LGM!!

  132. 132.   angel Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:33 am

    what they said.

  133. 133.   StevoRaine Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:34 am

    Please BA, pick me!

    Pretty please with Eta Carinae going supernova on top! ;-)

  134. 134.   Jake L Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:34 am

    very cool.

  135. 135.   level20monkey Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:35 am

    As an amateur skeptic and complete Book Nutter, I would love to add this to my collection!

  136. 136.   Davidlpf Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:35 am

    hey down here set you random generator to 135.

  137. 137.   Charles Boyer Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:36 am

    Calling occupants, of extraordinary interstellar craft.

  138. 138.   David L Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:37 am

    BAz da best!

  139. 139.   Randy Griffin Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:37 am

    Love the title; it’s almost as good as “Death from the Skies!”

    Seriously, these books will attract readers who would never glance at a “serious” science book. How devious of Phil and Seth. Way to go!

  140. 140.   Nunki Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:37 am

    Are you suggesting coconuts migrate?

  141. 141.   Jenny T Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:38 am

    Looks cool. Doubt I’ll win though. Here is to making sure noone else has a good chance of winning:P

  142. 142.   christina Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:38 am

    please delete my above comment i was typing something else and posted in the wrong page.

  143. 143.   Giffy Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:38 am

    Sounds like some awesome stuff!

  144. 144.   hkmouse Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:38 am

    Fingers crossed… for a WEEK…

  145. 145.   Morten Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:39 am

    You can’t trust the random number generators, so just send it all to me.

  146. 146.   jh Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:39 am

    I never win anything. But, hey, it might happen :) Love the blog :)

  147. 147.   lis Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:40 am

    I was unaware BA ever did giveaways. I should pay attention, eh?

  148. 148.   ABR. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:41 am

    Coconuts migrate by attaching themselves to the hands of wandering kuh-niggits and are not carried by swallows, as is commonly thought.

  149. 149.   Tyler West Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:41 am

    Very interesting stuff. Been lurking for a long time on BA, but this finally brought me out of the woodwork :)

  150. 150.   JoergR Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:42 am

    How nice, a contest eligible from Germany. I’m in!

  151. 151.   Christian Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:42 am

    Throwing my hat in the ring :)

  152. 152.   The Meal Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:43 am

    Shipping would be cheap, Phil. I live in Longmont!

  153. 153.   Mark P Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:45 am

    Can you ship to Canada eh??

  154. 154.   Lightspeedecho Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:45 am

    love the Blog. free stuff…even better! Thanks BA.

  155. 155.   dj empirical Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:46 am

    this is a comment.

  156. 156.   george Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:46 am

    I’m an alien, and I’d like to use these items as examples to my people of your species’ ingenuity.

  157. 157.   Jeff Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:47 am

    Seth, Phil, and Michio all rule the night – coast to coast!

  158. 158.   Richard Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:47 am

    Books! It’s been almost a week since my last Amazon shipment…gimme, gimme more!!!

  159. 159.   Junaid Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:48 am

    What people will do for free stuff..

  160. 160.   Shane Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:48 am

    Ooh, excitement plus! Seth was on the SGU a couple of weeks ago talking about his book. I was going to buy it. I still will if I don’t win it. Thanks Phil.

  161. 161.   Jim Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:49 am

    I have a 50/50 chance of winning!!!! it will either happen, or not. WOOHOOO!!!!

  162. 162.   Randy Smith Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:49 am

    I’d probably end up buying it for someone (or me) anyway!

  163. 163.   Hakobus Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:49 am

    Kiitos, Phil!

  164. 164.   Christopher Ferro Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:51 am

    Contest? Post? Really?

    CJSF

  165. 165.   Ben Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:52 am

    I like winning things.

  166. 166.   Astronomynut Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:53 am

    I sooo need something new to read!

  167. 167.   TheWhitePhoenix Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:54 am

    There are two things I cannot get by without in the mornings, #1 My Bad Astronomer -Phil, which I look at “RELIGIOUSLY” every morning while I’m waiting for #2 My coffee to brew.

    Luv ya baby!

    p.s. I think my husband is getting jealous that I spend more time with Phil in the morning than him.

    Phoenix

  168. 168.   Oskar Sundfeldt Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:54 am

    Great blog! After i heard Seth on The Sceptics Guide to the Universe i have to read his stuff!

  169. 169.   Lance Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:54 am

    I’d love to win this book. BTW, I really enjoyed “Death From The Skies”!

  170. 170.   Holly Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:55 am

    Oooooh, love the book cover design!

  171. 171.   Vince Kenny Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:55 am

    BA ftw
    Looking forward to TAM London!

  172. 172.   John Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:56 am

    I’m in.

  173. 173.   kathleen Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:56 am

    My 10 year old wishes that all humanity would get along-according to him, this is important -because than we can get together and battle all of the aliens…

  174. 174.   CoffeeCupContrails Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:57 am

    How come Seth looks like Dawkins? Is there a pattern there?

  175. 175.   Chris Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:57 am

    Thanks

  176. 176.   Paul Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:58 am

    Woo! This may be the first time I win a prize on teh interwebz!

  177. 177.   Josh Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:59 am

    neato

  178. 178.   Gary T Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:00 am

    Thanks for being the voice of sanity!

  179. 179.   Redstar Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:00 am

    So you’re saying that people who are friends of yours have no chance of winning free stuff?

    Knowing that, I’ll never speak to you if ever we meet, just for fear of disqualifying myself.

  180. 180.   Mario Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:01 am

    I’ll just leave here the last verses of Katsumi’s “Chance Encouter” poem:
    I know that my true friend will appear after my death
    And my sweetheart died before I was born.

  181. 181.   Old Muley Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:01 am

    My horoscope says I have a good chance of winning!

  182. 182.   Scott Dexter Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:01 am

    I have a fairly long commute each day, something like this would be perfect for the train.

  183. 183.   Pro Libertate Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:02 am

    Woo-hoo!

  184. 184.   mattythreepwood Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:03 am

    Me me me i want them there goodies!!

  185. 185.   Jude Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:03 am

    This would be useful in my school library. Of course, since I have a total budget of roughly $2000 a year, anything would be useful in my school library.

  186. 186.   Jeff Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:03 am

    Random generator pick me!!

  187. 187.   BrianS Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:03 am

    no whammy no whammy no whammy STOP!!!

  188. 188.   brandon Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:04 am

    I love you, man!

  189. 189.   Rob P. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:05 am

    commenting for a chance to win? I’m in.

  190. 190.   Amapola Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:06 am

    Come onnnnn… random number!

  191. 191.   Joe N. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:06 am

    here’s to another attempt at winning a nifty book

  192. 192.   M.J. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:07 am

    Humanity must harness the power of magnetars!

  193. 193.   Ragoth Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:07 am

    C’mon….c’mon…

  194. 194.   numsix Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:08 am

    Need Alien hunter book (or alien oriented CD)
    Must fight aliens at work…..

    Or I could wake up and get on with my day.

  195. 195.   drksky Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:08 am

    Never turn down free stuff!

  196. 196.   Kathi W Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:09 am

    I never win anything. Once I got a letter telling me I won a car but they sent me a green pebble instead and said sorry about the car.

  197. 197.   Mathew Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:09 am

    Me! Me! Me!

  198. 198.   Matt Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:11 am

    *crosses fingers*

  199. 199.   Andy Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:11 am

    On back order at amazon here, would love a copy.

  200. 200.   Bob Portnell Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:12 am

    “Are we alone?” I almost kinda hope so. Humanity’s goofy enough to look at from the human perspective. I’d hate to think what we look like to a real outsider.

  201. 201.   Mully410 Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:12 am

    Phil, you are a star and you rock….never heard of Seth, so I’ll look into that.

  202. 202.   John Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:13 am

    I feel lucky

  203. 203.   CMK Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:13 am

    I always support free stuff.

  204. 204.   Chris Mc Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:14 am

    This is my first comment on your wonderful blog. I hope it’s a lucky one!

  205. 205.   Kees Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:14 am

    Sign me up…

  206. 206.   Salad Is Slaughter Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:14 am

    I like free!

  207. 207.   Paolo Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:14 am

    Oh, absolutely

  208. 208.   The Goog Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:15 am

    Sounds like a fun read!

  209. 209.   Greg in Austin Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:16 am

    ˙ɹǝpɐǝl ɹıǝɥʇ sı ʇıɐld lıɥd puɐ ‘ǝɔɐds ɹǝʇno ɯoɹɟ suǝılɐ ǝɹɐ s,oɟn ‘ʎɹoǝɥʇ ɐ ʇsnɾ sʇı ‘sǝloɥ ɟo llnɟ sı uoıʇnloʌǝ ˙ʇuǝɔɹǝd ʎʇɟıɟ ǝq ʇsnɯ ƃuıuuıʍ ǝɯ ɟo ʎʇılıqɐqoɹd ǝɥʇ os ‘ʇ,uoʍ ı ɹo ‘uıʍ llıʍ ı ɹǝɥʇıǝ ˙ɹǝuuɐɯ lɐnsnun uɐ uı ʇı ʎɐs oʇ ǝsooɥɔ ı ‘ǝɹoɟǝɹǝɥʇ ˙ʇı ʎɐs ı ʍoɥ ɹǝʇʇɐɯ ʇou ʇsnɯ ʇı ‘ʎɐs ı ʇɐɥʍ ɹǝʇʇɐɯ ʇou sǝop ʇı ǝɔuıs

    8)

  210. 210.   David Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:16 am

    I am a foreigner.

  211. 211.   PaulM Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:17 am

    If you feel like sending a package to South Africa, let your randomiser choose me!

  212. 212.   PP Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:17 am

    I love these contests =)

  213. 213.   Eoghan Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:18 am

    I heard Seth on the SGU and Skepticality podcasts and his book sounds like it’s worth entering a contest for

  214. 214.   Tom Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:19 am

    Does an alien cookbook come with it?

  215. 215.   PAS Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:19 am

    This is my entry. There are many like it, but this one is mine.

  216. 216.   Malky Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:19 am

    wouldn’t mind winning.

  217. 217.   JohnB Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:20 am

    Nincs rajtam nadrag.

  218. 218.   Kesstra Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:20 am

    I won a dishwasher once but this would be way cooler!!!

  219. 219.   SMortimer Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:20 am

    If you put a good word in to that random number generator for me, I could make it worth your while. *nods towards Jewel Staite who is totally for reals standing right next to me*

    *wink*

  220. 220.   Steve Jones Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:20 am

    Poor students need free stuff!

  221. 221.   Rob Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:20 am

    N = N* fp ne fl fi fc fL

  222. 222.   Adam Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:20 am

    SCIENCE

  223. 223.   Jim Seymour Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:21 am

    ASCII 6

  224. 224.   FoxtrotCharlie Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:21 am

    Excellent Blog and Website. I find your nits on movies / TV shows Hilarious, you need to do more of these.

  225. 225.   IVAN3MAN Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:21 am

    Phil Plait, I think that you ought to have a “spot-the-grammatical-error” competition…

    That person will have until noon the next day to get back to me, and so one, until winners are chosen.

    :cool:

  226. 226.   Andy Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:21 am

    Take me Phil! I’m the only one who truly understands you.

  227. 227.   sandy Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:22 am

    this is so cool- thanks

  228. 228.   Gary Mussar Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:23 am

    As long as Blorg, the bounty hunter doesn’t find me.

  229. 229.   mus Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:25 am

    If you don’t allow people to win two things, please disregard this comment. I REALLY want that galileoscope you are going to give away :D

    If you do allow people to win two things, I’m in!

  230. 230.   dWhisper Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:25 am

    I for one welcome our new alien overlords.

  231. 231.   uudale Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:26 am

    Cool stuff.

    Want.

  232. 232.   Teej Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:27 am

    Gee, hope I win…

  233. 233.   Pat Montana Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:27 am

    I’m in for a win!

  234. 234.   Doubting Foo Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:28 am

    Phill is a pill, but Seth is the betht.

  235. 235.   «bønez_brigade» Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:28 am

    ⁴ τ ω

  236. 236.   Kyle Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:29 am

    Please sir may I have some free stuff, Phil rulez, even if he lives in the Republic of Boulder.

  237. 237.   Gary Eller Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:30 am

    Here’s hoping Seth one day discovers Xenu.

  238. 238.   Scott Fraser Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:30 am

    I love free stuff! Pick me please.

  239. 239.   Josh M Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:31 am

    I love this. Aliens are normally conspiracy theorists wet dreams, but you aren’t going that route, but the science route. Yes, you CAN dream of things and try to find the truth in these things… but its best to go the science route and get solid evidence!

  240. 240.   Bruce B Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:31 am

    I’m skeptical Phil is actually giving this stuff away, but what the hell, I’m in.

  241. 241.   Sean Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:31 am

    I like books.

  242. 242.   Greg Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:32 am

    What the deuce?

  243. 243.   fizzyb Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:32 am

    …how about that Fermi paradox? :)

  244. 244.   LSandman24 Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:32 am

    What if you’re an American servicemember serving overseas? Can you still win? It’s bad enough trying to order techno-devices from Amazon. I really need to replace my sweaty Zune armband, but I can’t because “that item is ineligible to ship overseas.” Bah!

  245. 245.   ddr Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:33 am

    Count me in. I have 2 of Phil’s books, both signed. I would be great to have one from Seth. I listen to his podcast all the time.

  246. 246.   elgarak Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:34 am

    Where does he get those wonderful things?

  247. 247.   Andy Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:34 am

    This is a comment.

  248. 248.   brie Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:34 am

    Hurray free stuff!

  249. 249.   Greg Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:35 am

    Go Seth. Go!

  250. 250.   Michelle Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:36 am

    NOOO! NOT THE SHAMWOW GUY!

    Please, I’ll be good, Mr. BA guy dude!

  251. 251.   Matthew Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:37 am

    yay for SETI!!

  252. 252.   Jeff Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:37 am

    I like free things. MMmmmm free.

  253. 253.   Ithonicfury Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:37 am

    I was almost abducted by aliens once, but thank god I had my alien thought screen helmet from http://www.stopabductions.com/ (tinfoil hats are what the aliens try to make you wear so that they can still affect you without you knowing…)
    So this book would really help. Jigoo!

  254. 254.   kingnor Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:40 am

    do want!

  255. 255.   Daniel Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:40 am

    Yay, please let me win!

  256. 256.   Matt Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:41 am

    Hooray for free stuff!

  257. 257.   Raitis G Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:41 am

    Gimme gimme gimme

  258. 258.   kuhnigget Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:42 am

    STOP GIVING MY BOOKS AWAY TO OTHER PEOPLE!!!!!!!!!

  259. 259.   Spencer Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:42 am

    Phil is my new FSM

  260. 260.   Ites Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:43 am

    It would be interesting to get a look at SETI from the inside of the program.

  261. 261.   skeptiq Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:44 am

    A little bit offtopic: a funny discussion of geocentrism at DailyKos: http://www.dailykos.com/comments/2009/5/4/64150/07194/55#c55

  262. 262.   Geoff Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:45 am

    Woo!

  263. 263.   zachary2142 Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:46 am

    Please FSM, help me win this one! :D

  264. 264.   Ibid Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:46 am

    I’m at home with a cold. Clearly, I deserve free stuff.

  265. 265.   zaardvark Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:46 am

    Sylvia Browne told me I was destined to win! I can’t lose, unless she’s a total fraud — which is highly unlikely!

    … Right?

    :(

  266. 266.   Joel Birch Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:47 am

    I don’t want any of that crap. NOT!

  267. 267.   Kris Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:47 am

    I have all your books, but my girlfriend makes me keep them in the study because she doesn’t like mixing fiction and non fiction. I’ll convince her Seth’s book is about actual aliens, and see if it makes it into the “fiction” section. :P

  268. 268.   skepdude Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:48 am

    You folks are toast. My astrologer predicted this and he instructed me to leave a comment exactly after the preceeding one. I get the book. Thanks Phil.

  269. 269.   Dan Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:48 am

    Phil rulez and Seth droolz

  270. 270.   a different cameron Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:48 am

    book book book earthbook

  271. 271.   MShades Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:48 am

    I hope I win! I listen to the SETI podcast AND the SGU every week! See, I’m a deserving fan!

  272. 272.   Brown Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:48 am

    Must celestial Plait select sum?

    (Yes, it’s a palindrome.)

  273. 273.   Daniel Gruss Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:48 am

    It would be nice…

  274. 274.   bigjohn756 Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:49 am

    Here’s my post.

  275. 275.   BMurray Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:50 am

    That is some very fine layout on the cover of that book. Elegant in the extreme.

  276. 276.   Brandon Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:50 am

    I’d be more concerned about those that follow him.

    Like Camera Guy…. *Shudders*

  277. 277.   Nimm Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:50 am

    :-)

  278. 278.   Grey Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:50 am

    Oh, this sounds like fun! Here’s hoping! *crosses fingers before realizing that good skeptics don’t cross their fingers*

  279. 279.   Seth Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:52 am

    Free Stuff..NOM NOM NOM…

  280. 280.   rasta013 Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:52 am

    I want the winning number!

    And the stuff would be nice too… :D

  281. 281.   Stu Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:55 am

    Pick me, I’m a foreign type!

  282. 282.   Gary Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:55 am

    OK, this ought to be fairly well down the list so that the supposedly random number generator (it’s got secret Gaussian tendencies, I tell ya) will have a better chance of picking this entry.

  283. 283.   Michael Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:55 am

    Ohh free swag. Can’t resist free alien goodness.

  284. 284.   Zirkman Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:56 am

    We are not alone, Aliens watch us!

  285. 285.   MHS Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:56 am

    According to Walter Wagner I have a 50 percent chance of winning this thing, so why not give it a try :) .

  286. 286.   Lister Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:59 am

    Oprah is giving Jenny McCarthy her own talkshow! You should be her first guest!

  287. 287.   Kenneth Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:59 am

    Better the ShamWOW guy than Billy Mays. At least I’ll love his nuts.

  288. 288.   Jimmy Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:00 am

    I would love to get this!

  289. 289.   Matt Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:01 am

    No Death From The Skies! win for me, so I actually had to buy it…. Maybe luckier this time

  290. 290.   !AstralProjectile Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:01 am

    Sign me up. My friend gave me a tour of The OSU’s Big Ear IMO it was a good design; its’s two horns were connected differentially, and they could move along a track if it found an interesting signal. Each Siderial day he had to change the reflector by 0.5 Deg, but that goes with the territory of being an astronomer.

  291. 291.   Travis Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:02 am

    This is a comment.

  292. 292.   Derek Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:02 am

    Gimmie my stuff! (pretty please)

  293. 293.   HJ Hornbeck Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:02 am

    Crap! I’m comment 213. There goes my chances… :(

  294. 294.   Alotar Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:03 am

    So, yeah, I’m posting comments here only on giveaways…

  295. 295.   GDwarf Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:03 am

    Heh, everyone loves lotteries that have free tickets.

  296. 296.   John Ham Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:05 am

    If Seth Shostak is an alien hunter, does that make him a Predator?

  297. 297.   JVannini Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:06 am

    The Annunakis are relatives of Anakin Skywalker! And those guys places the Moon around the Earth!

    Oh! And they said that the Moon is 9 billion years old!

    Ok… I hope that post about aliens would do!

    *summoning the ethereal power of the Annunakis*

  298. 298.   Thomas Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:08 am

    I am skeptical about the existence of James Randi.

  299. 299.   Jimmy Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:08 am

    Pick me!…Oh, pick me!

  300. 300.   Mark DeSchepper Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:09 am

    You are the only blog I read, BA rocks!

  301. 301.   freespace Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:09 am

    Yay, free stuff! :P

  302. 302.   James Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:10 am

    Yet another awesome distraction from study :D

  303. 303.   Alexius Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:10 am

    I love books! Free books are even better.

  304. 304.   OmegaMom Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:11 am

    Me! Me! Oooh, pick me! It sounds like a cool book…

  305. 305.   Chris Owen Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:11 am

    Sounds like an excellent book! Count me in! :P

  306. 306.   Amy F. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:11 am

    I want it, please give it me. :)

  307. 307.   MJBUtah Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:13 am

    I want to win because I just finished DftS and need something else to read to increase my science girl credibility. And maybe if I share it with my brother he will give me back my copy of DftS.

  308. 308.   Clair Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:14 am

    I toss my hat into the ring.

  309. 309.   MarshallDog Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:14 am

    If it’s free it’s for me.

  310. 310.   Evolving Squid Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:14 am

    Iä! Iä! Cthulhu fhtagn! I hope I have a chance :)

  311. 311.   Morgajel Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:16 am

    free books are the best ones to review.

  312. 312.   SteveG Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:16 am

    I just read the rules. There sure are a lot of people who are not friends of Phil. Maybe we should start a club or something…

  313. 313.   Pietro Toniolo Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:17 am

    Here am I, from Italy!

  314. 314.   Pierre Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:17 am

    I already won “The Saucer Fleet” a few weeks ago right here on BA, but I’ll try again! I’m sure that if I win, people will call it a conspiracy. It’s not. Just luck.

    OT: Antivaxxers are stupid.

  315. 315.   kb Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:17 am

    Long-time listener, first-time caller.

  316. 316.   T-dogg Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:18 am

    Oh, glorious random number generator, please pick me!

  317. 317.   smeared ink Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:18 am

    Jarvis Cocker?

  318. 318.   Jay Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:20 am

    I like cheese.

  319. 319.   L.C. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:20 am

    Hope I win! :)

  320. 320.   Paineroo Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:21 am

    Pow!

  321. 321.   John B Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:22 am

    Sweet, something to read to the kids at bedtime. JB

  322. 322.   Mike Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:22 am

    I’ve been meaning to get a new book to read. Contest GO!

  323. 323.   Chuck Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:24 am

    Phil-
    See you in Kazoo on May 30!

  324. 324.   whydontyou Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:24 am

    I’m in.

  325. 325.   Larry Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:24 am

    Yay! Me! Prizes! Pick me!, pick me!…. at random

  326. 326.   Justin Higinbotham Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:25 am

    Would love either – wish I had something pithy to say…

  327. 327.   Seagull Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:25 am

    I’m in!

  328. 328.   Jay Smith Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:25 am

    I love Death From The Skies!

  329. 329.   Reed Braden Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:26 am

    Yay, geek lottery!

  330. 330.   Ashley Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:26 am

    Kilroy Was Here.

  331. 331.   OBSirius Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:26 am

    If I believed in “lucky numbers” I’d swear this post was it!

  332. 332.   Timkatt Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:28 am

    Hi Phil,

    LTRFTP here. Thanks for a little bit of sanity in an insane world

  333. 333.   John Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:29 am

    Yay free stuff! Love the blog!

  334. 334.   Noidster Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:30 am

    Oook. I’ll bite, count me in!

  335. 335.   Falyne Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:30 am

    Squee!

  336. 336.   Manveet Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:31 am

    I love the Shamwow guy.

    I hope I win!

  337. 337.   Annalee Flower Horne Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:34 am

    ooh, me!

    I <3 Science.

  338. 338.   RAF Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:35 am

    Me want book….

  339. 339.   Tim Bailey Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:36 am

    Phil, your marketing genius is astounding! A brilliant way to promote interaction and the SETI program. My hat is off to you, sir.

    PS–I do hope you’ll come out to ISDC 2009 in Orlando!

  340. 340.   The Mutt Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:36 am

    I’ll either win or I won’t, so I’ve got a 50/50 chance! Woo hoo!

  341. 341.   BrianA Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:37 am

    I love Bad Astronomy!

  342. 342.   Rob G. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:38 am

    So I says to the guy I’m dancing with, “What the hell kind of party is this, anyway?”

  343. 343.   BoneheadFX Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:38 am

    Count me in!

  344. 344.   Martin Watts Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:39 am

    Put me down for the book please.

  345. 345.   garth Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:41 am

    While I read every post, even the crazy sciencey stuff that’s over my head (ha!) I almost never comment. But I’ve hear some interviews with Seth and that would be some sweet swag to score! Come on, random number generator! Hook me up!

  346. 346.   Luanne O'Neill Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:41 am

    Phil Plait is the King of the Universe!

  347. 347.   JC Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:41 am

    Don’t drop acid! Take it pass/fail!

  348. 348.   Helioprogenus Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:44 am

    This time, by harnessing Tesla’s integral counter-magnetized reverse-polarized crustal scattered currents, I shall win at least one of these give-away items. Alright, in all seriousness, I really don’t mind contributing to BA’s peaking web traffic for whatever nefarious reasons that are behind these giveaways. I find that in this instance, the outcome justifies the means to obtain it.

  349. 349.   Randal Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:44 am

    I’d love to read this book.

  350. 350.   TheGuyWhoTalks Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:47 am

    I like aliens lawlzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

  351. 351.   Jim Cruff Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:47 am

    Pick me, pick me, pick me!

  352. 352.   Brian Schantz Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:49 am

    gimme gimme gimme gimme!

  353. 353.   Tiara Diamond Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:51 am

    I’m an aspiring astrophysicist and NEED a good book on aliens!!! Go random number 252!!! :-)

  354. 354.   Michael L Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:53 am

    Phil, my name is Seth… join me, and together we will rule the galaxy!!!

    -Conversation overheard from Arecibo Radio Telescope

  355. 355.   Cathy Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:53 am

    Hey, Phil, Thanks for all you do for science, astronomy, and babies/children (re: vaccines). (P.S. I hope I win.)

  356. 356.   Scott Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:54 am

    As a friend of mine used to say: Your random is always better than my random. Let’s hope he’s right this time!

  357. 357.   Alan Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:54 am

    Something equally elegant. :)

  358. 358.   Nankay Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:54 am

    Pick me and I can pick it up in person at TAM! (saves you postage! woo-hoo)

  359. 359.   Some Canadian Skeptic Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:55 am

    I would totally like to win. And I DO totally like to win!

  360. 360.   jbrydle Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:56 am

    /roll
    Good luck to me!

  361. 361.   Jane Shevtsov Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:57 am

    This is not a comment.

  362. 362.   David Va. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:59 am

    Thank you.

  363. 363.   Kris Knapp Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:59 am

    I’m really ‘sirius’! (quote: you)

  364. 364.   WarpedBoard Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:00 am

    Here’s hoping for one more random event in my life!

  365. 365.   Kris Knapp Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:01 am

    Are you ‘sirius’? Loved your book!

  366. 366.   Gabe Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:03 am

    Yes, of course I’d like some free stuff! Plus this blog rocks!

  367. 367.   Deb Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:05 am

    Woohoo! I want to win! Choose meeee! :-)

  368. 368.   J Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:05 am

    Bad Astronomy rocks!

  369. 369.   John Kemeny Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:06 am

    Well, I didn’t win the $200M lottery this week.

  370. 370.   Reggie Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:08 am

    I like me some freebies! Especially books! Pick me, pick me, random number generator, please pick me!

  371. 371.   Eirik Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:10 am

    Me, please?

  372. 372.   Moor Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:13 am

    Maybe I’ll get lucky for once.

  373. 373.   Al Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:16 am

    Gimme, gimme, gimme! ;-)

  374. 374.   Brian Schlosser Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:17 am

    I want the stuff! AND, since no one can rebut me: The world is 6000 years old! The Virgin and Jesus regularly appear in food stuffs, clouds and oil stains! Evil-oution is “just” a theory! PZ Meyers has a cooler website! Heh heh heh! :-)

  375. 375.   Chris Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:19 am

    Take me to your freebie.

  376. 376.   AndrewC Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:20 am

    Pick me… or else I’ll release Jenny McCarthy from her cage

  377. 377.   Eric Amundsen Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:22 am

    Yeah! I want some cheesy-poofs.

  378. 378.   Fizzle Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:24 am

    I want it!

  379. 379.   Matt Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:25 am

    I love free stuff!

  380. 380.   Whomever1 Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:27 am

    Free stuff is cool, but I’m not sure I want any alien honey.

  381. 381.   Dave Nichols Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:27 am

    I’d love either of the freebies. Best of luck in getting the Skeptologists on the air!

  382. 382.   Guy who wants to win the book Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:28 am

    Does anybody know if SETI is involved in the search for Dyson Spheres ? I have heard that they are not involved in exobiology (same guys and gals who study extremophiles, I think). Based on my understanding of the science, this is the most likely way of detecting another civilisation that may or may not be trying to live quietly.

  383. 383.   Eric Madsen Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:28 am

    lucky number 267 : )

  384. 384.   dwardio Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:30 am

    268 is my lucky number!

  385. 385.   RTFM! Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:31 am

    Random clever quote:

    Abel’s Law:
    Seek those that seek the truth. Run from those that have found it.

  386. 386.   Sili Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:31 am

    That is (again!) not the face I’d put on the voice. To be fair, I keep being surprised by how much he’s done – for how long – considering he sounds younger than Molly.

    But that picture? He looks like the doppelgänger of a young Richard Dawkins.

  387. 387.   GDSkeptic Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:31 am

    free stuffs, do want.

    gratuitous inclusion of Fibonacci sequence:
    0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55, 89, 144, 233 …

  388. 388.   Selasphorus Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:32 am

    Sounds awesome.

  389. 389.   Byron Roberts Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:33 am

    Mary’s Pizza rocks! Pure respect….

  390. 390.   zer0 Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:33 am

    I can haz aliunz!1one

  391. 391.   ParanoidMarvin Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:34 am

    Nice job on the anti-vaccination smack downs

  392. 392.   John Powell Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:36 am

    I’m not your IRL friend yet, but I’d like to meet you next time you’re in Seattle!

  393. 393.   Bill Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:37 am

    Oh, HECK yeah, I’m in!

  394. 394.   LtStorm Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:37 am

    Might as well throw my helmet into the truncated tetrahedron.

  395. 395.   Jay Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:41 am

    Eh, why the heck not?

  396. 396.   Gavin Schofield Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:42 am

    Anecdotal evidence is the best form of evidence!

  397. 397.   Benevento Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:42 am

    I leave my chances to randomness.

  398. 398.   Carey Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:43 am

    I look forward to winning and reading this book.

  399. 399.   Tad Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:45 am

    I like free….oh yeah, I like stuff too.

  400. 400.   Santoki Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:47 am

    You’re doing us extraterrestrial human anthropologists a great disservice by exposing us like this, Phil. Thanks for nothing.

  401. 401.   Jared Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:47 am

    My random number is better than yours.

  402. 402.   Ovidiu Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:49 am

    It’s mine!

  403. 403.   Tom Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:49 am

    As you’ve foolishly forgotten to wear your tin hat, I’m beaming the order GIVE THIS GUY THE PRIZE at you.

    Rather surprising from someone who has so many interesting ideas on how to destroy the Earth.

  404. 404.   Adam Zeldin Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:51 am

    Pretty please!!!

  405. 405.   Matt Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:52 am

    I’ll make this one easy for you. Just pick me. Problem solved.

  406. 406.   Tometheus Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:52 am

    I like free stuff about SETi, can I play too?

  407. 407.   Drnecropolis Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:53 am

    The good Doctor demands a prize!!!

  408. 408.   Neil Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:54 am

    Love the BA blog.

  409. 409.   Jeremy Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:57 am

    Wacka-wacka.

  410. 410.   Wayne Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:57 am

    Pi to Square-root-of-negative-one: Get Real

    Square-root-of-negative-one to Pi: Be Rational

  411. 411.   Jean-Denis Muys Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:57 am

    My crystal ball says it’s my turn…

  412. 412.   Wut Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:59 am

    Postin’

  413. 413.   Mike P Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:59 am

    I don’t think the aliens have visited us, but I refuse to believe we’re alone in the universe!

  414. 414.   Zach Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:59 am

    What’s not to like about this? I love me some hard SciFi, and the stuff it’s based on is even better!

    Sometimes I wonder if I went into the wrong field…

  415. 415.   AlphaOrionis Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:59 am

    Can I have your snazzy Discover umbrella instead?

  416. 416.   stellar190 Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:05 pm

    bibble bobble boop says the alien up the apple tree…

  417. 417.   Chris Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:05 pm

    oh what the heck. here’s my hat, there’s the ring. Here’s me throwing.

  418. 418.   Jeffrey Cornish Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:06 pm

    You know that you’ve always been my favorite blogging astronomer…

  419. 419.   Pratish Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:07 pm

    Here’s to see if i strike gold…

  420. 420.   Larian LeQuella Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:07 pm

    I’m guessing that having a mancrush on you does not violate rule #3? :D

  421. 421.   Jarrad T Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:08 pm

    I’m in ur universe, exposin’ ur pseudostuffs!

  422. 422.   Matt S. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:08 pm

    Sweeeeeet!

  423. 423.   Ami Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:12 pm

    Something

  424. 424.   Paul Popernack Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:13 pm

    Phil rocks and/or rolls!!!

  425. 425.   Oded Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:13 pm

    Oh looks cool. *jumps in*

  426. 426.   Vicki Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:13 pm

    Oooh…!

  427. 427.   Josh K Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:14 pm

    Hello!

  428. 428.   domini1018 Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:14 pm

    I want it! I want it! I want it! :D

  429. 429.   Big Al Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:14 pm

    Please.

  430. 430.   RaptorJedi Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:16 pm

    Oooh, neat. Also, random: Seth rulez and Seth droolz

  431. 431.   Aaran Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:17 pm

    Yay a big ol give away… i’ll either win or i wont win… ergo it’s a 50/50 chance!!! ha ha!!
    Cheers Phil love ya blog man!

  432. 432.   Siphoneuphoria Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:17 pm

    I like cheese!

  433. 433.   killyosaur Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:18 pm

    WEEEE! I’m totally not gonna win this! Figured I’d post anyway though.

  434. 434.   Nuno Lucas Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:20 pm

    +1

  435. 435.   drow Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:21 pm

    shamWOW!

  436. 436.   Wyatt Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:21 pm

    For hundreds of years, man believed the Moon was made of cheese. In 1969, man traveled to the Moon and learned it was made of rock. Man has not been back since. Behold the power of cheese.

  437. 437.   Artbot Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:22 pm

    I want to believe….that I’ll win!

  438. 438.   Chad Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:23 pm

    I might be an alien.

  439. 439.   Valdis Kletnieks Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:26 pm

    A book from somebody hunting for alien intelligences. Yee-hah! I hope they find some soon, with all these anti-vaxxers and creationists and other anti-rationalists, I’m severely convinced that CM Kornbluth was right in The Marching Morons, and we’re in need of a king-sized intelligence transplant if we intend to remain a viable species. ;)

  440. 440.   Tahlmorra Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:27 pm

    Round and round and round she goes..will I win? No-body knows..!!

  441. 441.   Mighty T Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:27 pm

    Oh hi, Mr Phil.

  442. 442.   Akash Shah Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:31 pm

    Great blog! Hoping for the best.

  443. 443.   JerWah Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:32 pm

    If you’re name is Phil Plait and you are reading this message, I must have won… :-) !

    WOOT

  444. 444.   Nicholas Moline Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:34 pm

    I LOVE ALIENS!!!

  445. 445.   Brent Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:40 pm

    Phil rulez and Seth droolz

  446. 446.   TMB Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:43 pm

    I want to win. :)

  447. 447.   I am not a number Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:48 pm

    …but i’ll accept free books.

  448. 448.   Rick Prairie Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:49 pm

    Hi Phil. See you at the Amaz!ng Meeting 7.

  449. 449.   Bill Davidson Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:52 pm

    Aliens? What aliens. You guys are the aliens. We’ve seen your TV and heard your radio. We have no desire to contact you. You’re idiots! SETI rules!

  450. 450.   Trebuchet Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:52 pm

    I’ll bite. Do I also get the alien condiment bottle?

  451. 451.   Mrs Grimble Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:56 pm

    Oooh! Oooohhh!!!! I love free stuff! Pick me! PICK ME!!!!!!

  452. 452.   Navi Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 12:59 pm

    ooooh father’s day pressie for my hubby if I wind sthing!

  453. 453.   tdhowe Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:00 pm

    Free stuff is awesome and so is BA.

  454. 454.   WT Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:02 pm

    Not as cool as free Dr. Who stuff, but still worth it.

  455. 455.   ioresult Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:02 pm

    me

  456. 456.   Melissa Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:03 pm

    Been a lurker for awhile. Love the site!

  457. 457.   Brandon Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:04 pm

    I’m so far down the list! :(

  458. 458.   Zach Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:05 pm

    Awesome, I loves me some SETI!

  459. 459.   SkeptikSnarf Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:06 pm

    oooo hope i win, even if i dont this is one more book i will add to me to read list

  460. 460.   sawinkler Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:07 pm

    we are totally alone.

  461. 461.   Enano Siniestro Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:07 pm

    Been reading you for years. I’ll take an alien baby bottle and the rest of the stuff.

  462. 462.   JamesJones Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:08 pm

    Astronomy is even cooler than pizza!!!

  463. 463.   mln84 Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:10 pm

    Posting to enter. Thanks!

  464. 464.   Mikael Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:12 pm

    I’m a one of them foreigner types, so I’m eligible!! Hurray!

  465. 465.   Jeremy Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:12 pm

    Do want. Yay yay.

  466. 466.   Benner Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:13 pm

    Me super win now please.

  467. 467.   Bruce Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:17 pm

    I am a big fan. Keep up the good work.

  468. 468.   Dave C Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:18 pm

    I wish I was as cool as Phil! Now gimme the book!!! :-)

  469. 469.   Emily Horner Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:23 pm

    Victory is mine!!!! (hopefully)

  470. 470.   John Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:24 pm

    OK, just once!

  471. 471.   Layman Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:24 pm

    I refuse to leave a comment just to win a book.

  472. 472.   Leon Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:26 pm

    I want it! I want it! Especially the book.

  473. 473.   dre Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:26 pm

    word on up.

  474. 474.   highschoolphysics Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:26 pm

    I hope I’m not discriminated against because I’m Canadian…

  475. 475.   DrFlimmer Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:27 pm

    Wow. Is this the thread with the most comments ever?

  476. 476.   Tarmo Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:29 pm

    OK… just giving a try posting here… Although, I am skeptical about E.T. theories, I do not have anything against SETI. After all, if we were really the only ones(and given the size of Universe – we may never know,), we would be dealing with an astronomical waste of space.

    Nevertheless, I enjoy the site, keep up the good work!

  477. 477.   omar Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:30 pm

    Gimmie the gold, I want the gold!

  478. 478.   Tom Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:31 pm

    I win! I win! Whopee! I love BA!

    (just in case)

  479. 479.   BMcP Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:33 pm

    I want to believe! :D

  480. 480.   Noam Zur Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:34 pm

    Seeing how I can’t just hop across the pond for the talk in Denver I thought I would try this one out… With my luck I will be chosen but offline for the weekend ;)

  481. 481.   TuckerK Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:36 pm

    Ce n’est pas un commentaire

  482. 482.   davery Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:39 pm

    I wants me some SETI schwag.

  483. 483.   w_nightshde Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:40 pm

    My son would love that alien bottle. And I would love the rest. :D

  484. 484.   Bandon D. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:43 pm

    Wow, those sound brilliant. I’d love to have either.

  485. 485.   José Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:45 pm

    Beep.

  486. 486.   Neil Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:46 pm

    Feeling lucky…come on, random number generator! Generate me a winnah!

  487. 487.   Alex Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:51 pm

    “The Brightest Stars Look At Me With Your Eyes”

  488. 488.   JackC Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:51 pm

    BACON!!

    Oh wait… wrong thread. Nevermind.

    JC

  489. 489.   Sciencegoddess Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:54 pm

    (Ears perk up) Joanne lifts head from final exam she is creating….”Science book? did someone say science book?”

  490. 490.   Brad Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:55 pm

    I just read Death From the Skies! I loved it. Want more space books…

  491. 491.   LibraryGuy Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:56 pm

    If I win the book I promise to add it to the library collection…
    …personal library….

  492. 492.   Michael Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 1:58 pm

    This site rocks!

  493. 493.   Bob Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:05 pm

    waffles lots of waffles
    I would love to have this…
    pick me!

  494. 494.   Joe Fausnight Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:05 pm

    Hunting aliens? I am there!

  495. 495.   spurge Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:07 pm

    I hope I win!

  496. 496.   Kassul Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:11 pm

    wooo, been a fan of the idea of aliens for ages. Good old Carl Sagan’s explanation of the Drake equation in Cosmos was rather inspiring, though I felt quite a bit of “what? Why did you pick that number? Seems rather arbitrary!”

    Look forward to reading the book/listening to the CD! (If I win :P )

  497. 497.   Mark Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:12 pm

    Free swag? And better yet, free science-y swag! Sign me up!

  498. 498.   Frost Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:14 pm


    This seems like an excellent point to briefly pop my head above the surface… Free books always appreciated!

  499. 499.   Adam Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:15 pm

    Interesting. I wouldn’t mind reading this book.

  500. 500.   nichole Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:17 pm

    <3 BA <3

    and p.s. thx for coming to CT!

  501. 501.   Tan Coul Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:27 pm

    What’s so improbable about tossing a coin? Random sampling to reflect the broad flow of the material universe. Astral Jung…

  502. 502.   BadMA Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:28 pm

    The book sounds interesting.

  503. 503.   Stephen Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:31 pm

    Pick me pseudo-random number

  504. 504.   Tim G Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:33 pm

    Phil Plait and Seth Shostak are my two favorite astronomers.

  505. 505.   Nemo Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:33 pm

    This would make a fine day-late birthday present for me.

    And yeah, he sure does look like Richard Dawkins in that picture. And a bit like an alien himself.

  506. 506.   Josh B. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:33 pm

    touchdown Clemson!

  507. 507.   Michkov Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:34 pm

    gimme

  508. 508.   Jon B Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:36 pm

    Posting something. I suppose, since it’s random-ish, I don’t need to post anything else.

  509. 509.   tjm220 Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:36 pm

    I thank you in advance for my prize.

  510. 510.   Velok Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:39 pm

    Yay. Free stuff :)

  511. 511.   Saevar Helgi Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:44 pm

    As a foreigner from a country that’s as good as bankrupt after the economy crisis, I’d love the book, or the CD or whatever.

  512. 512.   Veovis Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:46 pm

    Ah, and what a joy t’would be to win!
    Even though my chances may be slim,
    I’ll post this anyways on a whim.
    Thanks Phil, you’re a real gentleman.

  513. 513.   Daniel Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:51 pm

    That alien water bottle would make a good tattoo, wouldn’t it?

  514. 514.   Jason Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:51 pm

    Dear lord there are alot of comments here already!

  515. 515.   jeff Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:52 pm

    oooo, i can learn me some science!

  516. 516.   Joe Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:53 pm

    Sign me up for the free stuff!

  517. 517.   Brian Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:54 pm

    Harrrrrrdy har har! Here is my post!

    ps I love my new iMac

  518. 518.   Hannah Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:58 pm

    All your prize are belong to me.

  519. 519.   Pick me! Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 2:58 pm

    I like books! And CDs! And astronomy and science! And various other things too!

  520. 520.   MarcS Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:00 pm

    Mine.

  521. 521.   Brian Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:03 pm

    rubber bands?

  522. 522.   Mig Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:06 pm

    If I don’t win, I’m okay with that… but, If Oprah wins… if Oprah wins… if Opra… oooooh! I will NOT be very happy. Not very happy, at all.

  523. 523.   jonathan Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:07 pm

    Slap chop > shamwow

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWRyj5cHIQA

  524. 524.   Jim Beaver Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:08 pm

    Hunting aliens is fun!

  525. 525.   SourBlaze Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:16 pm

    Oooh! Me me me me! I want it!

  526. 526.   orogeny Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:16 pm

    Pick me! Pick meeee!

  527. 527.   dzman Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:21 pm

    Phil schoolz

  528. 528.   Thomas Kilgour Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:24 pm

    howdy!

  529. 529.   Adam Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:25 pm

    Thanks for the great blog and throwing some swag our way.

  530. 530.   unquiet_mind Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:26 pm

    “Phil rulez and Seth droolz”

  531. 531.   JZ Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:28 pm

    I wanna win! I wanna win!

  532. 532.   Hamlet Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:29 pm

    How much energy in a Kelvin? It’s 50/50. :)

  533. 533.   Robert Lewis Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:33 pm

    Good gods that’s a lot of posts. I’m going to have to hurt the people who taught me probabilities when I was a child.

  534. 534.   Roy Batty Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:42 pm

    I’m a Grey (Marfanoid).

  535. 535.   Carolyn Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:49 pm

    Just finished ‘Phase Space’ by Stephen Baxter – don’t remember hearing about the Fermi paradox before. Obviously I don’t know enough about SETI. ;)

  536. 536.   Brett Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:50 pm

    my uncanny power to predict the future tells me I’m going to win this prize.

  537. 537.   Kaleider Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:51 pm

    i just got a celestron first scope, 3″ dobsonian, 2 eye pieces, under $50 i can’t wait to see what i can see…

  538. 538.   Red McWilliams Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:51 pm

    comment

  539. 539.   NormW Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:53 pm

    Keep Up The Good Work Phil !

  540. 540.   Breklor Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:53 pm

    When I grow up I want to be an alien astronaut!

  541. 541.   THand Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:53 pm

    Awesome. As always the Bad Astronomer is just too good (and right, and skeptical, and Randi-like) to ignore!

    (Too much? ;-) )

  542. 542.   Paul Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:54 pm

    Free Stuff!! Woo-hoo!

  543. 543.   fracai Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 3:55 pm

    It’s been a long time since the aliens have talked to me. Hopefully this book will include the right contact details.

  544. 544.   Rikaja Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:06 pm

    Looks interesting :)

  545. 545.   Cairnos Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:12 pm

    I can has free stuff plz?

  546. 546.   Nicolas Conti Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:14 pm

    That book sounds intresting. Hope i win.

  547. 547.   JWhite Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:15 pm

    Seth shostak!!

    Phil Plait!!!

    Arrrrrrrrrrg!!!!!!

  548. 548.   kme Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:18 pm

    stellar

  549. 549.   Wendy Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:19 pm

    ME WANTZ TEH WIN!!!

  550. 550.   Josh Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:24 pm

    Heard an interview with him recently, sounds like a good book!

  551. 551.   Arno Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:27 pm

    Dont want the cd, but am very interested in the book.

  552. 552.   James Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:28 pm

    “Of similar elegance” indeed…

    …PHIL ROOLZ, ANTIVAXXERS DROOL!

  553. 553.   Alice Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:33 pm

    Hey, neato. I like winning stuff. Bring it on!

  554. 554.   Knight of L-sama Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:39 pm

    Oooh, I am captivated by the shinyness of the CDs. (Starts imploring the Random Number Gods)

  555. 555.   Joshua Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:40 pm

    I’m deaf and illerate, and would like both book and CD.

  556. 556.   Michael from MA Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:40 pm

    These are not the aliens you are looking for…

    You will aware free stuff to me…

    May the fourth be with you.

  557. 557.   Sabrina Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:41 pm

    The truth is out there.

  558. 558.   Chip Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:43 pm

    “a comment”

  559. 559.   Harry Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:45 pm

    Bom chikka wow wow!

  560. 560.   Julia Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:48 pm

    Beam me down a prize!

  561. 561.   Michael W Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:52 pm

    I’m in

  562. 562.   NJB Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:53 pm

    Hmmmm….. so it just needs a comment, any comment, and your number could come up? Well, here’s my comment. I’ve been a Bad Astronomy reader since before Bad Astronomy came to Discover Magazine, but this is the first time I’ve commented. What does that say about me? Maybe just that I’d rather listen than offer my own uninformed opinion!

  563. 563.   eskwayrd Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:57 pm

    Nice. Should I win, I’ll enjoy the item(s) and then pass them on to our local library.

  564. 564.   Charlie Young Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 4:59 pm

    Awright!Free Stuff!

  565. 565.   Michael Suttkus, II Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:00 pm

    Bwa ha ha ha! Victory is mine! I know this because I have lost many, many, many similar contests, so the law of averages demands that I win this one! Behold the power of advanced mathematics!

  566. 566.   The Other Elwood Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:01 pm

    It ain’t cheap but love is free.

  567. 567.   Procyan Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:02 pm

    Papa needs a new pair of shoes…

  568. 568.   Unstrung Photo Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:12 pm

    What better place for Jenny Mccarthy Body Count

    I want to start seeing that link come up first on google searches for Jenny + Mccarthy. Right know it’s number one for Jenny + Mccarthy + Death

  569. 569.   Matt Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:15 pm

    42

  570. 570.   Tiggerbone Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:17 pm

    Maná maná
    Do doo do do do!

  571. 571.   Alien Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:17 pm

    Mwahahahaha!

  572. 572.   Dounk Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:18 pm

    I’d like to read about my friends.

  573. 573.   Petrucio Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:21 pm

    É nóis na fita mano!

  574. 574.   WJM Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:21 pm

    Woozle wuzzle!

  575. 575.   Dently Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:29 pm

    So you’re saying there’s a chance…

  576. 576.   Caleb Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:32 pm

    Sup, y’all.

  577. 577.   The Old Man Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:32 pm

    More stuff!

  578. 578.   SiMPel MYnd Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:34 pm

    Gotta’ love the free stuff.

    Oh, yeah, and that other stuff about Phil drooling on Seth’s rulers…

  579. 579.   Identity 4 Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:37 pm

    Ooooh contest! goody goody!

  580. 580.   Mechman Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:42 pm

    what a great idea…I loves contests!!

  581. 581.   Mark Craig Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:55 pm

    May the 4th be with you!

    (OK, I’m making this comment on May 5th, but who could resist an opportunity to slip in a Star Wars reference?)

  582. 582.   dave merrill Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:56 pm

    ARE WE ALONE!!??!??

  583. 583.   IAmMarauder Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 5:56 pm

    I can’t think of anything witty to post, so this will have to do :P

  584. 584.   Brad Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:03 pm

    A winner is me.

  585. 585.   Brian Anderson Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:04 pm

    the divergence of the magnetic field doesn’t equal zero.

    :D

  586. 586.   Savino Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:05 pm

    I don´t know what to post!

  587. 587.   Bronwen Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:09 pm

    I like free things

  588. 588.   Miranda Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:14 pm

    Go # 548!!

  589. 589.   Apyllon Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:15 pm

    I like stuff… and also things.

  590. 590.   Crudely Wrott Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:20 pm

    If I am lucky enough to win some cool stuff, then I am also lucky enough to give to it to my grandsons who will then be lucky enough to get some cool stuff and learn some cool stuff.

    *izzat cool or what?*

  591. 591.   NathRuss Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:22 pm

    Please send me free stuff Phil, the postage to Australia isn’t too expensive.

  592. 592.   Paul M. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:23 pm

    Listen to me very carefully, I’ll say zis only vunce.

  593. 593.   Amir Z Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:28 pm

    WOW signal….. really!!

  594. 594.   Michael Foerster Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:30 pm

    Any truth in the rumor that Seth is an alien living amongst us? Does he have green blood?

  595. 595.   Avi Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:40 pm

    Here I am! Did I win?

  596. 596.   Ryan Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:42 pm

    You say you’ll generate a random number but what guarantee do we have that the number will be in > 0 and <= number of comments? Of all the random numbers out there only an infinitesimally tiny fraction meet that criteria.

  597. 597.   John Lushbough Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:45 pm

    sounds cool

  598. 598.   Horace D. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:46 pm

    Woo, books!

  599. 599.   bassmanpete Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:48 pm

    Wow, 555 comments! At least you’ll get an idea of how many lurkers you have.

  600. 600.   TravisM Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:50 pm

    I’m due. lol ;)

  601. 601.   Kimpatsu Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:52 pm

    Phil’s presence on this planet is evidence that we are not alone!
    Now I won’t win, will I…?

  602. 602.   Barry Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:54 pm

    Gimme gimme gimme! Please.

  603. 603.   BenL Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:55 pm

    Here’s hoping I win!

  604. 604.   duffytvs Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:57 pm

    I love the blog and Seth’s show! As an English teacher, I also appreciate the great puns (if a great pun is possible) both Phil and Seth come up with!

  605. 605.   Mark P Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:59 pm

    It all started with a Big Bang !!

  606. 606.   Lisa Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 6:59 pm

    First time leaving comment on this blog! I doubt I’ll be the Chosen One, since I am one out of about 600 at the time I am typing this.

  607. 607.   josh paynter Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:04 pm

    i will win

  608. 608.   ThinCritter Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:06 pm

    Great Podcast great Blog, from the coolest Astronomers. Science would be poorer without them.

  609. 609.   Mick Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:08 pm

    Really? Free?

  610. 610.   John Keller Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:09 pm

    Stop the antivaxxers

  611. 611.   Michael Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:11 pm

    Free stuff? Sign me up!

    Keep up all the great posts, Phil!

  612. 612.   McK Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:17 pm

    I’ve heard Seth speak on a few podcasts, and I’d enjoy reading his book. If I don’t win it, I’ll probably buy it — right after I buy Death From the Skies.

  613. 613.   Mount Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:26 pm

    I am proud to say that I am not your friend IRL!

  614. 614.   Scott Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:29 pm

    Greetings from Australia! (From the better half – the west)

  615. 615.   Robert L Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:33 pm

    Woo hoo, sign me up…

    Astronomy rules, but being a skeptic wins!

    cheers,
    Robert

  616. 616.   cletus Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:34 pm

    I usually have something clever to say but I can’t be clever on command.

  617. 617.   JonMcSkeptic Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:38 pm

    I am Spartacus

  618. 618.   River Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:40 pm

    Alien hunter made me think of “The Doctor Trap” but that’s probably because I just finished reading it. Also, free stuff!

  619. 619.   John Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:41 pm

    [/lurk]
    Seth rulez!

    …but Phil rulez more! Rule on, Phil.
    [lurk]

  620. 620.   Tom M Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:46 pm

    I was kidnapped by aliens the other day. “Give us stuff or else ” was there message. You better send me stuff to give them “or else”.

  621. 621.   maccski Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 7:58 pm

    BTW, how’s the search for terrestrial intelligence going?

  622. 622.   Ryan Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:00 pm

    the Drake Equation
    Solve for N
    N=R * fp * ne * fl * fi * fc * fL

    Does N= 1.25?
    or 6.25? or .0125? Or something else?
    What do you think?

  623. 623.   Lisa Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:10 pm

    I just like winning cool stuff.

  624. 624.   darius Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:23 pm

    Mmmm, drool. =]

  625. 625.   KiwiBrian Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:28 pm

    Just watched a DVD on SETI last week. The book would be good.

  626. 626.   TexMark Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:37 pm

    Fee-uhl roo-ells!

  627. 627.   James McCann Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:41 pm

    _

  628. 628.   Rowan Bulpit Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:42 pm

    Great way to get people to comment! Well..here goes..

    Purple monkey dishwasher!

  629. 629.   Awesome Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:43 pm

    If I win, I’m not going to wash my hands for a year, hooray!

  630. 630.   DemetriusOfPharos Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:47 pm

    Im in your contest, winning your swag!

  631. 631.   tracer Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:53 pm

    There once was a fencer from Fisk
    Whose thrust was exceedingly brisk;
    So fast was his action
    The Lorentz Contraction
    Turned his rapier into a disk!

  632. 632.   Simon C. Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:55 pm

    SETI might be our best chance ever to find proof of extraterrestrial civilisations. Can you imagine how cool that would be? Astronomy rocks!

  633. 633.   Sidra Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 8:58 pm

    Tasty, tasty aliens.

  634. 634.   Ubi Dubium Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:05 pm

    I can haz prizes?

  635. 635.   Wilson Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:13 pm

    Well, since us foreigners can apply as well… here I am!

  636. 636.   Mathew Wedel Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:14 pm

    Gimme gimme gimme!

  637. 637.   Chris Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:31 pm

    Across the gulf of space, intellects vast and cool and unsympathetic regarded our planet with envious eyes and slowly, and surely, drew their plans against us.

  638. 638.   grbiersema Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:33 pm

    hurrays for give-aways!

  639. 639.   Jack Mitcham Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:39 pm

    So I’ll have a 1 in 500 chance instead of a 1 in 1000?

    Sounds good to me, I guess.

  640. 640.   Madge Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:41 pm

    I’d make something impressive but apparently content does not affect the result.

    I’m an AWA listener though :D

  641. 641.   Digital Cosmos Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:43 pm

    Keep up the good work BA!

  642. 642.   Earl Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:44 pm

    My hat’s in the ring.

  643. 643.   Michael Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:48 pm

    Figured I’d give it a shot. I have a small shot.

  644. 644.   Fyrebird Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 9:53 pm

    I’m pretty random, so you don’t have to bother with a random number generator, just pick me :P

    SETI is very cool and I’m very interested to see this book, I might have to go buy it even if I don’t win it. Many people don’t think of it as serious science and lump it in the same field as UFO hunting and pyschic phenomena, but I know differently. There’s a real chance to see something strange and wonderful here without chasing after swamp gas…

    I’ve always wanted to travel among the stars… well, that may not be possible but getting a message from the stars would be the next best thing. I hope L is a very large number so I can see a message from an extraterrestrial civilization in MY lifetime! :P

  645. 645.   Bastard Sheep Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:00 pm

    Moo cows go moo.

    *goes back to hating on anti-vaxxers*

    As you can see, they’re slowly but surely destroying my mind.

  646. 646.   Hena Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:01 pm

    Look at me, Im commenting!! Woot!

  647. 647.   Mark M Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:03 pm

    I need something to read after I finish DftS!

  648. 648.   Phil d Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:10 pm

    Nerd-boy likes his booky-wooks! Gimme :P

  649. 649.   will Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:24 pm

    Five-hundred and eighty-seventh!

  650. 650.   Greg Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:25 pm

    Pick me! I’m a foreigner!

  651. 651.   Marius Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:26 pm

    Free stuff? Sign me up. I do not have swine flu, and I ensure that all my kids are fully vaccinated.

  652. 652.   llewelly Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:30 pm

    I can’t believe you’re stooping to this kind of cheap bribery, Phil.

    I had thought better of you.

  653. 653.   Joanna Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:36 pm

    vi rules emacs drools!

  654. 654.   Bart Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:46 pm

    If I win, donate the book to the TAM7 auction.

  655. 655.   Davros Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 10:59 pm

    will you be traveling to Australia to give out the prize
    It is about time you Visit the Land down under
    (that is if you have not already)

  656. 656.   Michell Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:07 pm

    MINE!

  657. 657.   James Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:17 pm

    Give me the prize and I’ll convince my alien friends not to pull the plug on our computer simulated existence.

  658. 658.   Patrick G Till Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:27 pm

    Phil, I will see you at TamLondon.

  659. 659.   Josh Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:29 pm

    hi

    i kind of wish you’d write more about space and less about vaccinations. only cause this is an astronomy blog

  660. 660.   Zed Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:39 pm

    I am always down for some free stuff.

  661. 661.   Jens Rydholm Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:46 pm

    It’s life Jim, but not as we know it

  662. 662.   Athefitz Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:50 pm

    No autographs from Molly Bentley??? WTH?

  663. 663.   Ohio Mike Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:51 pm

    This is my post. There are many like it but this one is mine. My post is my best friend. It is my life. I must master it as I must master my life. Without me, my post is useless. Without my post I am…uh, you get the idea.

  664. 664.   MaF Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:51 pm

    This comment intentionally left almost blank

  665. 665.   Chelsea Says:
    May 4th, 2009 at 11:55 pm

    Hey, mom, there’s something in the backroom. I hope it’s not the creature from above.

  666. 666.   timmyk Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 12:11 am

    “They’re not trespassing, they were invited!”

  667. 667.   Roger G Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 12:18 am

    Pick me . . . I’m an Alien!

  668. 668.   ColonelFazackerley Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 12:20 am

    gimme free stuff!

  669. 669.   Darrin Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 12:29 am

    Time to add another book to my Phil Plait worship shrine…

  670. 670.   Jack Hagerty Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 12:43 am

    Yay! I get to enter this one!

    - Jack

  671. 671.   Citizen of the Cosmos Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 12:52 am

    Free book by Shostak? Sounds great.

  672. 672.   bjgger Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 12:52 am

    Phil rulez and Seth droolz

  673. 673.   Eralp Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 1:33 am

    I want to participate as well.
    Cheers!

  674. 674.   Ken Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 1:45 am

    I’ll collect the prizes at TAM London ;-)

  675. 675.   JohanL Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 1:47 am

    Please, Pretty Please, I really desire this.

  676. 676.   deatkin Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 1:47 am

    Dwight: “I heard beer makes you stupid.”
    Fry: “No I’m… doesn’t.”

  677. 677.   Francois Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 1:52 am

    You going to ship to South Africa? Nice… Oh and goats make good cheese.

  678. 678.   Anita Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 1:55 am

    It’s an interesting way to get an estimate of how many regular readers you have. I feel like I should at least make a token effort. After all, free stuff is free, no matter the odds, and I am a student, so I can’t pass it up and still feel good about myself.

  679. 679.   chaboyax Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 2:13 am

    im a “foreigner type” but i can still enter ooohhh joy thanks

  680. 680.   Brian G Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 2:25 am

    I come to comment and (hopefully) win a prize

  681. 681.   Kevin P Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 2:39 am

    Gimme the prize! :-)

  682. 682.   RobM Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 2:59 am

    got to be in it!

  683. 683.   Vin Petrol Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 3:21 am

    I would be interested to read why you puny humans have failed to hear my many attempts to communicate with you…

  684. 684.   Emma Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 3:22 am

    Foreigner types rule the comment thread at this hour.

  685. 685.   André Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 3:37 am

    I’m feeling lucky

  686. 686.   Lexcarter Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 4:05 am

    I like Buses

  687. 687.   Torsten Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 4:11 am

    According to my astrology advisor I have a sure chance to win if I post JUST NOW!

  688. 688.   DoctorandusWho Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 4:14 am

    I am Zim!

    Also, I am terribly afraid of extraterrestrials. I blame my father :D .

  689. 689.   Wayne H Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 4:20 am

    672 comments already! You greedy, greedy people.

    ++

  690. 690.   Luke Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 4:24 am

    Greetings, exalted one.

  691. 691.   prunde Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 4:25 am

    You should offer a couple of ShamWOW’s just for playing.

  692. 692.   Don C Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 4:30 am

    Count me in… 673

  693. 693.   Matt Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 4:31 am

    Chance would be a fine thing. Love reading the BA blog

  694. 694.   Sarah Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 4:44 am

    Mad love for Bad astronomy and there amazing give aways!

  695. 695.   RickWeimer Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 4:56 am

    To be honest, what I’d like to get is a copy of “Death from the skies” – signed by the author, of course :)

  696. 696.   Adam P Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 4:57 am

    I’m willing to hit Jenny McCarthy with a bus.

  697. 697.   Retry Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 4:59 am

    I want that ;D

  698. 698.   Jeff Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 5:05 am

    I L-O-V-E Phil’s books! Does anyone have any reading recommendations that would complement his work?

  699. 699.   anthrobabe Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 5:09 am

    To put it like the Pointer Sisters did — “I’m so excited, and I just can’t hide it, i’m about to loose control and I think I like it.” Thank you for another great give-away.

  700. 700.   Earl's TV Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 5:20 am

    Want. (Eloquently.)

  701. 701.   Mihai Zaharie Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 5:21 am

    Maybe I get lucky this time. If I do, I hope the book is as good as DFTS!

  702. 702.   Dan Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 5:26 am

    Yay! I usually don’t win, but if I do it’s usually a book ^^

  703. 703.   Nigel Depledge Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 5:40 am

    Yes please, Dr BA.

  704. 704.   Bernd Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 5:46 am

    Hey, it’s me…

  705. 705.   Dori Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 5:47 am

    OOOOO! OOOOOOOO! Pickmepickmepickme!

  706. 706.   Kevin Palm Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 6:19 am

    Vibraphone!! Oh, wait! That’s for the OTHER bald guy!! ;-D

  707. 707.   Phill Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 6:20 am

    Using my powers of divination I have travelled forward in time and seen that this comment will possess the winning number.

    (Accuracy rate of 0.023%)

  708. 708.   tarrkid Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 6:20 am

    pick me! pick me!

  709. 709.   JBY Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 6:21 am

    You gotta love free and valuable stuff. George Carlin said we can’t have enough stuff and I agree. Love B.A.!

  710. 710.   SionH Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 6:25 am

    Dear Random Number Generator,
    I know we’ve had our differences in the past and that it has been some months since we last spoke, ever since that incident when you went with 4 while I wanted to go with 7. I realise now that you were right and that I was wrong. 4 was the only valid choice. What was I thinking? I like to think that I am a wiser, more open person these days, can’t we let bygones be bygones? Will you help an old friend?
    Sion

  711. 711.   Harold Geller Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 6:38 am

    A post for a giveaway, chosen by a random number generator. Shouldn’t that really be a pseudo-random number generator?

  712. 712.   Bobby Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 6:41 am

    Looks like a really interesting book.

  713. 713.   Brian Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 6:51 am

    Bad As! Tronomy!

  714. 714.   TenaciousMT Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 6:57 am

    Trying to get free stuff when I should be working…

  715. 715.   Bramblyspam Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 7:00 am

    Into the drawing we go!

  716. 716.   Sandy L Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 7:15 am

    I purchased your last book – and I would be very happy to get these things for free… LOL. I’m just an average, middle-aged woman and I adore your blog! I have always been fascinated with astronomy and you have taught me more than I thought I would ever know. TY from the bottom of my rather large and encompassing heart. Oh – and you ROCK!

  717. 717.   Jeof Vita Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 7:21 am

    Big fan of both BA and AWA podcast. WANT. FREE. STUFF!

  718. 718.   Chris Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 7:23 am

    If i do not win this book, i will more than likely purchase it now thanks to this post.

  719. 719.   K.Sturgess Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 7:25 am

    Alpha beta gamma delta. Worth a shot.

  720. 720.   Steve Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 7:26 am

    Here’s my entry…

  721. 721.   Chris Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 7:28 am

    Always love a chance for free stuffs.

  722. 722.   Don Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 7:35 am

    Awesome column always, and we get Are We Alone on the local NPR station — also awesome. Keep up the good work!

  723. 723.   matt Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 7:39 am

    sounds like an interesting read

  724. 724.   Patrick L Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 7:48 am

    What’s up Phil?! Love your stuff!

  725. 725.   Sean Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 8:08 am

    Looks like a great book. I’m always looking for new astronomy books to feed my brain.

  726. 726.   ArtO7 Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 8:10 am

    I am here for my swag.

  727. 727.   João Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 8:19 am

    Give me the prize please.

  728. 728.   ivo Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 8:20 am

    Greetings from Croatia! Now give it to me :D

  729. 729.   Oscar Ferro Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 8:34 am

    Thanks, Phil. Count me in.

  730. 730.   Max Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 8:42 am

    show me the MON-EYYYYYYYYYYYYY(well book but you knew what i meant).

  731. 731.   Scott McLean Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 8:42 am

    How come you don’t have an official rank, like Colonel Awesome for instane?

  732. 732.   Nick Gaston Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 8:46 am

    So this post leaves me wondering what your opinions are on the existence of extraterrestrial life, and if they could ever make contact with our civilization.

  733. 733.   Tom Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 8:47 am

    What a fine random number generator, I’m sure it is the best random number generator ever made. I would even say that the random number generator used for this contest is the sexiest random number generator in the history of random number generators.

  734. 734.   Andy Beaton Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 9:10 am

    MeMeMeMeMeMeMe! Give the prizes to me!

  735. 735.   Mattias Dalkvist Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 9:34 am

    Arrgh!
    Me likes me some loot!
    =D

  736. 736.   Jason Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 9:36 am

    Phil Rulez, thanks for the chance

  737. 737.   DaveS Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 9:37 am

    Please, no Sham-Wow guy!

  738. 738.   William Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 9:37 am

    Have you ever had that boyish compellation to be the first on Mars, even if it meant you wouldn’t ever come back? There in that less than elusive bit of lobe that conveys your ceaseless wonder at the mechanisms that make reality possible. That bit of lobe that thinks; If you did meet some form of life, would it be as xenophobic as we are…would it bequeath some status quo…would it listen to every whim and folly of its peers…or perhaps, perhaps, in some singular moment it might be as you: One of the few of its race that actually cared and thought and pursued the realm of science…and for that very instant in both of you- the universe would come together with meaning…and all your questions would go unanswered without native tongue. Then, you come back to the start and wonder to yourself; Is being unable to ask the questions that plague you a fate worse than death.

  739. 739.   sophia8 Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 9:39 am

    I can’t think of anything clever. Just gimme the free stuff.

  740. 740.   smittypap Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 9:43 am

    Yo.

  741. 741.   Gradzoople Bonk Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 9:47 am

    Phil:

    Can I still enter if I’m an extraterrestrial alien? Will you ship off planet?

    And how do I win that little statue of myself?

    Thanks loads!!!

    Bonk

  742. 742.   ATGreat Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 9:52 am

    I hope I win the book. :)

  743. 743.   cybergoulion Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 9:54 am

    I am an alien!

  744. 744.   John Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 9:57 am

    -”Workers of the earth! I bring… good tidings of peanuts! And beer!”

  745. 745.   Gary Crowell Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 10:02 am

    I never win anything.

  746. 746.   Bruce Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 10:03 am

    So, will you reveal what random number generator you use?
    Scrutiny and all, y’know…

  747. 747.   Dan Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 10:09 am

    I always wonder why we sign up to get free stuff, even if we don’t really need it…

  748. 748.   Democritus Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 10:13 am

    You know the extraterrestrials are probably laughing at us.

  749. 749.   Jodie Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 10:29 am

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKTSaezB4p8

  750. 750.   Steve P Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 10:35 am

    Did I win yet?

  751. 751.   Chris T. Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 10:53 am

    Live long and probe wisely.

  752. 752.   Bend Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 11:02 am

    I would love to read that book, I have always found him very interesting and engaging…

  753. 753.   John P Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 11:15 am

    Does the office junk come signed?

  754. 754.   flynjack Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 11:36 am

    Cant be a winner if you dont play, so how about a chance at a cool book or CD?

  755. 755.   Caffeine Rage Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 11:40 am

    Sounds like an interestng book.

  756. 756.   favvr Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 11:40 am

    eligible foreigner type

  757. 757.   Robert Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 11:49 am

    This is why we can’t find the aliens. Stupid inch to centimeter conversion errors. http://haikucomics.com/2009/03/30/blown-up

  758. 758.   sublunary Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 12:16 pm

    Ooh, I need some reading material for the summer. I feel the need to stuff my brain with non-law information before starting law school in the fall…

  759. 759.   Jake C. Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 12:25 pm

    I have been reading this blog for a while and have enjoyed every minute. Thanks.

  760. 760.   Bess Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 12:28 pm

    Since yesterday was my birthday, I am applying for the job of ownership of book, CD and/or alien squeezebottle today, because I never win anything on my birthday. Only aliens do.

  761. 761.   Jordan C Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 12:44 pm

    Looks like a good book.

  762. 762.   Craig Rosenzweig Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 12:56 pm

    WilW follows more people on Twitter than you. You’ll catch up someday.

  763. 763.   Rodrigo Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 1:01 pm

    I find these cheap attempts at comment-herding to be vapid and diminishing. As are the people who are only commenting to get the prize. Like me.

  764. 764.   Lisa Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 1:18 pm

    Do I get my Skeptic pass revoked if I admit I have a soft spot for Stanton Friedman?

  765. 765.   Der Klempner Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 1:21 pm

    Thanks for thinking of your readers, Phil. BA is the only blog I read on a regular basis, and there’s a reason for that.

  766. 766.   Chris Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 1:57 pm

    Prizes

  767. 767.   Jim Shaver Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 2:10 pm

    Love ya, Phil! (Love Seth, too!)

  768. 768.   Larry Bell Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 2:18 pm

    Alien Hunters?
    I thought Jenny McCarthy WAS a alien!!

  769. 769.   CameronP Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 2:26 pm

    The BA blog rocks.

  770. 770.   John McBryde Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 3:00 pm

    Better late than never I suppose.
    Isn’t it amazing that you seem to get the greatest number of responses when you give away free stuff. Who says you can’t buy friends?

  771. 771.   Jeff W Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 3:03 pm

    I’m in!

  772. 772.   darth_borehd Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 3:05 pm

    Me! (raises hand)

  773. 773.   Anne Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 3:10 pm

    What a great way to count readers!

  774. 774.   MB Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 3:11 pm

    Me Please!

  775. 775.   Ryan C Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 3:12 pm

    Thanks BA! I’m pretty sure you were my intro to skepticism.
    (My birthday’s in a week – this would make a nice gift!)

  776. 776.   Daryl Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 3:15 pm

    Cool giveaway Phil, cheers from Canada :)

  777. 777.   Blooper Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 3:24 pm

    Going to see Trek’ on Saturday. Live long and prosper!

  778. 778.   Stark Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 3:41 pm

    Count me in please. :)

  779. 779.   changcho Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 3:44 pm

    Heard Seth Shostak a couple of times and he’s a good speaker. Also have his previous book and I wouldn’t mind getting his newest one; thanks!

  780. 780.   Paul Mundy Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 4:59 pm

    Seth rocks

  781. 781.   Flemmit Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 5:19 pm

    I want a punching Phil puppet. He’s the best!

  782. 782.   Senethior459 Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 5:48 pm

    Why don’t people like Seth ever show up on ridiculous shows like UFO Hunter; provide a little much-needed sanity to them?

  783. 783.   insanecarbonbasedlifeform Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 6:19 pm

    Water.

  784. 784.   Sandra K321 Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 6:26 pm

    My Sister-in-law is giving my brother-in-law a surprise 50th birthday party. They never do anything conventional so the theme of the party? Aliens! I would love to win this for them.

  785. 785.   kim v Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 7:15 pm

    Thanks for the giveaway!
    Kimspam66(at)yahoo(dot)com

  786. 786.   DeWeese Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 8:11 pm

    Longtime fan, Phil. Keep up the good work. And get yourself on Oprah

  787. 787.   ctcoker Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 8:30 pm

    ;IDL is teh uber!

  788. 788.   Michael Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 8:32 pm

    Brilliant idea Phil! Now… i will telepathically communicate with you…

    You…
    will…
    pick…
    me…

    Is it working?

  789. 789.   Tamsin Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 8:45 pm

    New Zealand. Ewe should come, Phil.

  790. 790.   Carmen Jimenez Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 9:47 pm

    Wow! thanks for this great opportunity .. I hope to have a chance to be a winner … I´m crossing my fingers already

  791. 791.   Tara Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 10:05 pm

    Awesome, I hope I win.

  792. 792.   Mike Baker Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 10:16 pm

    First!

  793. 793.   Miles Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 10:50 pm

    I stopped running SETI@Home on my computer years ago. Sometimes, I still feel guilty that I’m not still doing it.

  794. 794.   Alyssa Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 11:03 pm

    This is shiny!

  795. 795.   Nathan Says:
    May 5th, 2009 at 11:08 pm

    Like Shrodinger’s cat I won’t know that I did or did not win until I see the name of the winner posted.

  796. 796.   sarah martens Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 12:05 am

    we used to run seti in our house years ago.
    my older brother had it running constantly. i was young and used to worry that by him having this on his computer, aliens would come to our house and abduct us. the idea of looking for intelligent life and possibly finding something made me less scared and i used to watch it for hours waiting for something.

    BA = love!

  797. 797.   Manvir Clair Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 12:05 am

    Phil and the Bad astronomer.How do you two ever get along?? Ok, now i want the book to be sent over to India, i already have all AWA podcast on cds.

  798. 798.   Stephen Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 1:13 am

    Aliens contacted me. Choose me and I’ll tell you what they said!

  799. 799.   Simon Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 1:48 am

    Me please. Better odds that the lotto at least!

  800. 800.   Belinda Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 2:21 am

    This sounds interesting. Thanks for the chance to win.

  801. 801.   DarkSapiens Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 3:04 am

    Hi there :)

    Nearly 800 comments… wow

    Still much better than the odds of winning in the lotto… or death by asteroid impact ;)

  802. 802.   JC Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 4:52 am

    Phil rulez and Seth droolz

  803. 803.   Jeff Pedigo Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 9:14 am

    Me win? Me? Please? Thanks Phil.

    Jeff

  804. 804.   Mr Geek Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 10:35 am

    I can haz astro book?

  805. 805.   Francesco Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 11:18 am

    I love Bad Astronomy giveaways!

  806. 806.   Bryan Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 1:46 pm

    I hear aliens don’t believe in vaccines!

  807. 807.   Chris_R Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 2:03 pm

    G’day Phil. Got the book (Amazon is my friend). Loved it – especially the last chapter.
    Peter B, are you sure you’re not Eddie M using a false name??

  808. 808.   FuzzyBuns Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 2:56 pm

    If I don’t win, I will immediately question your random number generator.

  809. 809.   Joseph Williams Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 3:36 pm

    The Truth Is Out There.

  810. 810.   HawekeyeMD Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 5:25 pm

    I want free stuff! I vaccinate children for a living!

  811. 811.   Bryan Scherrer Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 5:37 pm

    Oh man, free alien stuff. Want!

  812. 812.   russ cargill Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 7:07 pm

    Auuugh! Must… have…. alien…. baby….. BOTTLE!!!

  813. 813.   Dan J Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 7:50 pm

    As always, Phil, you are the awesomest!

  814. 814.   JHill Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 7:51 pm

    Awesomeness

  815. 815.   drboogie Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 8:02 pm

    I have my tinfoil hat ready for the invasion.

  816. 816.   jole Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 8:42 pm

    Comment

  817. 817.   Andrew MW Says:
    May 6th, 2009 at 10:06 pm

    OMG, 816 responses already!

  818. 818.   Sathish Says:
    May 7th, 2009 at 3:09 am

    817th Reply.. Bad astronomy rocks..
    Thanks Phil

  819. 819.   Alan K. Says:
    May 7th, 2009 at 4:17 am

    I love a gamble Mr BA!

    *goes “all-in”*

  820. 820.   Richard Paez Says:
    May 7th, 2009 at 6:09 am

    I just want that water bottle for my night table. That way I can freak out every time I wake up in the middle of the night: “Baby! Baby! Wake up! We’re being visited by a tiny alien!”

  821. 821.   Jaz Says:
    May 7th, 2009 at 7:55 am

    Giveaway? Where?

  822. 822.   RickU Says:
    May 7th, 2009 at 9:27 am

    Roll those dice! Daddy wants a new pair of shoes!

  823. 823.   Bhavin S. Says:
    May 7th, 2009 at 10:06 am

    I love Bad Astronomy.

  824. 824.   Cassandra D Says:
    May 7th, 2009 at 11:04 am

    loves it!

  825. 825.   McAwesome Says:
    May 7th, 2009 at 11:07 am

    I love how the first time I comment one of your blogs, it’s only because there’s a prize being offered. But to be honest, it’s because I’m intimidated by the intelligence of you and the others that comment. Anyway~ You’re pretty awesome.

  826. 826.   Ed_CO Says:
    May 7th, 2009 at 11:20 am

    I like aliens.

  827. 827.   Michael Kingsley Says:
    May 7th, 2009 at 11:47 am

    I wish I was able to see more of Seth Shostak when he was Science Guest of Honor at Minicon last month.

  828. 828.   Emily Says:
    May 7th, 2009 at 11:58 am

    I love the AWA radio show. It’s made of awesome.

  829. 829.   DTdNav Says:
    May 7th, 2009 at 12:17 pm

    I’m in!

  830. 830.   Pocket Nerd Says:
    May 7th, 2009 at 2:38 pm

    Did I mention that I love DftS? Of course, I know this won’t prejudice you in any way… ;)

  831. 831.   Grant A Says:
    May 7th, 2009 at 10:31 pm

    I will do science to it.

  832. 832.   TheBlackCat Says:
    May 7th, 2009 at 11:51 pm

    I can’t think of anything interesting to write.

  833. 833.   Ian "Fluff" Cummings Says:
    May 8th, 2009 at 4:46 am

    Wow!! What a great giveaway from a great website… Cheers Phil!!

  834. 834.   Geoff Fargo Says:
    May 8th, 2009 at 8:21 am

    Aspies rule.

    Vaccines are cool.

  835. 835.   Nevy C Says:
    May 8th, 2009 at 11:55 am

    I actually had my eye on that plastic alien, but I guess either of the other two giveaways is ok too!

  836. 836.   Ewan Says:
    May 11th, 2009 at 1:17 pm

    835 responses… and I just got email that *I* won the book.

    So… (i) YAY! and (ii) not looking good for my karma balance on that grant application, huh? :)

  837. 837.   Alien Hunter: we have winners! | Bad Astronomy | Discover Magazine Says:
    May 14th, 2009 at 5:00 pm

    [...] week was the BA giveaway contest for the book Confessions of an Alien Hunter and the CD set of the "Are We Alone" radio [...]

  838. 838.   Seth Shostak gets the Colbert treatment | Bad Astronomy | Discover Magazine Says:
    May 21st, 2009 at 12:38 pm

    [...] hmmmm… Seth’s book was on the show. I got an advance copy a few months ago and was asked to write a blurb for it (you [...]

  839. 839.   John Cosper Says:
    May 22nd, 2009 at 10:20 am

    never won anything……

  840. 840.   sachin Says:
    January 31st, 2010 at 3:36 pm

    r alians true?

Leave a Reply





    • About Bad Astronomy


      Phil Plait, the creator of Bad Astronomy, is an astronomer, lecturer, and author. After ten years working on Hubble Space Telescope and six more working on astronomy education, he struck out on his own as a writer. He's written two books, dozens of magazine articles, and 12 bazillion blog articles. He is a skeptic and fights the abuse of science, but his true love is praising the wonders of real science.


      The original BA site (with the Moon Hoax debunking, movie reviews, and all that) can be found here.


      Contact me: The Bad Astronomer "at" gmail "dot" com


       
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    • Death from the Skies!


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      "If things worked the way I wanted them to, any reporter about to do another 'sensational' story on deadly meteors would consult this volume, and bang! common sense would find its way into the news. How strange would that world be?"
      -- Adam Savage, Mythbusters


      "Reading this book is like getting punched in the face by Carl Sagan. Frightening, but oddly exhilarating."
      -- Daniel H. Wilson, author of How to Survive a Robot Uprising


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