The Universe and Alfred Russel Wallace*

Abstract Alfred Russel Wallace is best known for his work as a naturalist and evolutionist, and for his general interest in life on Earth, taking “life” in the broadest sense of the word to include both biology and culture. So it comes as a surprise to many to learn that he had an early fascination with astronomy, remained “deeply interested” in astronomical discoveries throughout his life, and late in life wrote two books on one of the most sensational and important aspects of the subject—life on other worlds.