How did life begin on Earth? Could it exist on other planets? Or are we alone in the universe? In recent years, incredible breakthroughs have revolutionised our understanding of the cosmos. New discoveries include the existence of millions of exoplanets, many of which could be a potential habitat for extraterrestrial life. Nathalie A. Cabrol, celebrated astrobiologist and director of the Carl Sagan Center at the SETI Institute, is the perfect guide to this golden age of astronomy. The Secret Life of the Universe starts with the beginning of life on our own planet, before embarking on an exhilarating tour of the Solar System and beyond. This dazzling book explores the conditions and habitats where life may be found, and searches for answers to questions that have preoccupied humankind for centuries.