Alastair Preston Reynolds is a renowned Welsh science fiction author, born on March 13, 1966. He is celebrated for his expertise in hard science fiction and space opera. Before becoming a full-time writer, Reynolds was a space scientist, working at the European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) of the European Space Agency (ESA). This scientific background deeply influences his fiction.

Reynolds' writing career began with short stories published in the British science fiction magazine Interzone in the early 1990s. He has since published numerous novels and over seventy shorter pieces of fiction. His works often explore complex scientific themes and are set in a consistent future universe named after his debut novel, Revelation Space.

Throughout his career, Reynolds has received critical acclaim and his work has been widely translated. He has also been involved in scientific outreach activities, blending his love for science and fiction. His recent works include adaptations of his stories into other media, such as animated films in Netflix's series Love Death and Robots.