Cosmology’s Century: An Inside History of Our Modern Understanding of the Universe

Modern cosmology began a century ago with Albert Einstein's  general theory of relativity and his notion of a homogenous,  philosophically satisfying cosmos. Cosmology's Century is the story of how generations of scientists built on these thoughts  and many new measurements to arrive at a well-tested physical theory of  the structure and evolution of our expanding universe.

In this  landmark book, one of the world's most esteemed theoretical cosmologists  offers an unparalleled personal perspective on how the field developed.  P. J. E. Peebles was at the forefront of many of the greatest  discoveries of the past century, making fundamental contributions to our  understanding of the presence of helium and microwave radiation from  the hot big bang, the measures of the distribution and motion of  ordinary matter, and the new kind of dark matter that allows us to make  sense of these results. Taking readers from the field's beginnings,  Peebles describes how scientists working in independent directions found  themselves converging on a theory of cosmic evolution interesting  enough to warrant the rigorous testing it passes so well. He explores  the major advances―some inspired by remarkable insights or perhaps just  lucky guesses―as well as the wrong turns taken and the roads not  explored. He shares recollections from major players in this story and  provides a rare, inside look at how science is really done.

A monumental work, Cosmology's Century also emphasizes where the present theory is incomplete, suggesting exciting directions for continuing research.