Twenty-six of the best science fiction stories of 2003, embracing every aspect of the genre - soft, hard, cyberpunk, cyber noir, anthropological, military and adventure - a comprehensive review of 2002 and a list of further recommended reading makes this the definitive guide for any enthusiast, writer or budding space explorer. In its sixteenth year, with over 700 pages, this 250,000 word-showcase devoted exclusively to excellence in science fiction features short stories and novellas by today's finest exponents such as Robert Reed, Geoff Ryman, Nancy Kress, Bruce Sterling and many more.