The first man on the moon was a civilian. But those who have gone on to explore our newest boundary have almost all been military per sonnel. Space is truly the final frontier, & w/the explorers & settlers will come the forces that will preserve peace & guard against the dangers of the unknown. It is hoped that these forces will alw ays have all of mankind's welfare uppermost in their minds. But will they? In this novel, Bova has set forth visions of a future where conflicting military forces are able to work together, to help sh ape a world freed from economic need & global annihilation, ready to colonize the stars. It is a bold future, envisioned by a man known for his astute scientific predictions & his unswerving faith in the hope & destiny of mankind.