In the distant future, the giant galactic Empire loses the remnants of its former power. Its dissolution will inevitably be followed by a period of barbarism. The Academy — the best scientists of all mankind-is called to save the accumulated knowledge for centuries. That oppose the science of the dying Empire? Humanity has conquered the cosmos, the Earth has ceased to be the center of the Universe, but the galactic Empire is more vulnerable than ever, and humanity is experiencing an imminent catastrophe. His best minds are at the mercy of corrupt warlords. Classic fiction from the recognized master of the genre, man of science and Professor of biochemistry Isaac Asimov. Hugo award for best cycle of all time. One of the 10 best SF novels ever by Locus magazine. Frightening foreknowledge of the future. Innovative science psychohistory on the guard of culture, against barbarism and ignorance. Bold hypotheses, rejection of the multiverse, the problem of the " spiral of time — - combined with adventure fiction. Boundless faith in science and its sanctuary — the Academy. The dark ages for thirty thousand years and the place of man in the society of the future. The film adaptation of the series is planned by Apple.