At first, the reader of this book may get the impression that the Universe is just waiting for its apocalypse. But should we really be afraid of black holes, gamma-ray bursts and supernovae? And if there are reasons for fear, then can we do something to save ourselves? The witty and funny famous astrophysicist talks about the countless options for the end of the world that the cosmos can bring down on us. Offering the reader fascinating and disturbing plots, as if borrowed from science fiction, Philip Plait accompanies them with comments on how they could affect life on Earth and the Universe itself, if brought to life. But the author does not set out to amaze the reader with sensational information: by analyzing this or that probable scenario, he shows how to prevent it. This is an impeccably scientific, but accessible study for the general reader - an excellent lesson in astronomy for beginners and a real pleasure for prepared science lovers.