The physics of the cosmic microwave background / Pavel D. Naselsky, Dmitry I. Novikov, Igor D. Novikov ; translated by Nina Iskandarian and Vitaly Kisin.

Title from publisher's bibliographic system (viewed on 05 Oct 2015).

Observational foundations of modern cosmology -- Kinetics of electromagnetic radiation in a uniform universe -- The ionization history of the universe -- Primordial CMB and small perturbations of uniform cosmological model -- Primary anisotropy of the cosmic microwave background -- Primordial polarization of the cosmic microwave background -- Statistical properties of random fields of anisotropy and polarization in the CMB -- The Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe (WMAP) -- The 'Planckian era' in the study of anisotropy and polarization of the CMB -- Conclusion.

Spectacular observational breakthroughs, particularly by the WMAP satellite, have led to a new epoch of CMB science long after its original discovery. Taking a physical approach, the authors of this volume, which was first published in 2006, probe the problem of the 'darkness' of the Universe: the origin and evolution of dark energy and matter in the cosmos. Starting with the observational background of modern cosmology, they provide an accessible review of this fascinating yet complex subject. Topics discussed include the kinetics of the electromagnetic radiation in the Universe, the ionization history of cosmic plamas, the origin of primordial perturbations in light of the inflation paradigm, and the formation of anisotropy and polarization of the CMB. This fascinating review will be valuable to advanced students and researchers in cosmology.