Alternative cover edition exists here. The enigmatic object christened Rama was detected while still outside the orbit of Jupiter, and a first radar contact at such a distance was unprecedented, indicating that Rama was of exceptional size. As it raced through the Solar System, it became apparent that Rama was a cylinder so geometrically perfect that it might have been turned on a gigantic lathe. Mankind was about to receive its first vistor from the stars. There are perpetual surprises, constant evocation of the sense of wonder, and occasions of the most breathless suspence - New York Times Quite masterly - The Times One of the best novels Clarke has written... packed with suspense and mystery - Sunday Times Cover illustration: Steve Stone