In Search of Dark Matter [Paperback]

Written for the educated non-scientist and scientist alike, it spans a variety of scientific disciplines, from observational astronomy to particle physics. Concepts that the reader will encounter along the way are at the cutting edge of scientific research. However the themes are explained in such a way that no prior understanding of science beyond a high school education is necessary.

The dark matter problem is one of the most fundamental and profoundly difficult problems in the history of science. Not knowing what makes up most of the mass in the Universe goes to the heart of our understanding of the Universe and our place in it. In Search of Dark Matter is the story of the emergence of the dark matter problem, from the initial 'discovery' of dark matter by Jan Oort to contemporary explanations for the nature of dark matter and its role in the origin and evolution of the Universe.

Written for the intelligent non-scientist and scientist alike, it spans a variety of scientific disciplines, from observational astronomy to particle physics. Concepts that the reader will encounter along the way are at the cutting edge of scientific research. However the themes are explained in such a way that no prior understanding of science beyond a high school education is necessary.

How to weigh galaxies.- The false dawn.- Seeing the invisible.- Dark halos.- We are surrounded!.- Pieces of the Big Bang.- Cosmic mirages.- The baryon inventory.- MACHO astronomy.- What can the matter be?.- Exploring exotica: neutrinos.- Exploring exotica: WIMPs and axions.- In the beginning....- Towards omega.

From the reviews:

Foremost amongst our talents is deduction. Using logic and reasoning, a truth can be determined without direct evidence. Ken Freeman ands Geoff McNamara in their book & showcase this talent. & Given the state of unknown portrayed, this book would be a great tool to lure ulc.