Perfect for the writer looking for realism in his work. Written for the layperson, this book gives details about the 800 stars and 80 planets within 40 light-years of Earth, with special attention given to the stars which Astronomers have discovered have orbiting planets. Includes a summary of star formation and evolution, planet formation theories, and where planets might orbit. Stars with planets have charts showing each planet's orbit, as well as the habitable zone -- where a planet must orbit to have water as a liquid on a planet's surface. Over one hundred easy-to-read maps and charts in 113 pages make it simple understand, and a comprehensive index makes it easy to use. Writers will find this an excellent resource that provides all the details needed to write a believable story. "An invaluable resource for anyone who wants to get their hard science or space opera right." -- Thomas A. Easton, Professor of Science (Ret.). Former columnist for Analog Science Fiction and Fact. "An essential resource for science-fiction writers and astronomy buffs alike." -- Robert J. Sawyer, Hugo Award-winning author. "A fascinating and extremely useful resource for authors seeking to portray, realistically, the realm within 80 light years of our home. I've seen nothing better!" -- David Brin, Astrophysicist and Science Fiction author. "As a science fiction writer who wants to 'get the details right', I've found Terry Kepner's book a valuable resource. This new edition is a great improvement, drawing on more recent research and discovery, and is a wealth of information for writers." Walter H. Hunt, author of the 'Dark Wing' science fiction series. "Proximity Zero has been one of the most useful books on my reference shelf for many years ... and the third edition is the best yet! An absolutely indispensable tool for science fiction writers, one that I recommend without reservation. If you write SF, you need this book!" -- Allen Steele, Author of Coyote and Arkwright.