The science of cosmology is on the brink of a evolution. Astronomers and physicists are beginning to answer the ultimate questions that have plagued humanity since prehistory: how was the universe born and how will it end?
In just a few years' time, the scientists will achieve their goal. Already they have glimpsed if the universe; now they are peering into its grave and staring at the face of God. When results from experiments currently being conducted all over the world finally come together, the findings will constitute one of the greatest moments in science - as great as the deciphering of the human genome.
'Alpha And Omega' tells the story of this cosmological revolution and of the scientists who are bringing it about. From mythological origins of the universe to a look at the theories of Aristotle, Galileo, Copernicus, Kepler and Newton, Seife takes us on a gallop across time - and introduces us to the newest figures on the trail: galaxy-hunters and microwave- eavesdroppers, gravity theorists and atom- smashers. He discusses dark matter, dark energy and the particle zoo, and reveals bitter rivalries between brilliant minds pushed to the fringes of science.
As we come nearer to an understanding of how the universe began, so we can see where it will all end. 'Alpha And Omega' makes cutting-edge science crystal clear, and provides fascinating, lucid explanations of some of the most stunning scientific ideas of our time.
