StarTalk Radio Cosmic Queries – Big Bang Bonanza with Brian Keating
Jun 14, 2022
Join cosmologist Brian Keating, a distinguished professor at UC San Diego and host of "Into the Impossible," as he dives into the mysteries of the universe. Explore the intriguing questions about what existed before the Big Bang and the significance of cosmic inflation. Brian and the hosts discuss the fascinating cosmic microwave background and its implications. They also tackle the challenge of communicating complex science to the public while sharing personal insights and playful humor. Get ready for a cosmic journey filled with wonder and wit!
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CMB Fluctuations
- Temperature fluctuations in the CMB are caused by quantum fluctuations in the inflaton field.
- These fluctuations acted as seeds for the formation of stars and galaxies.
Before the CMB
- Before the CMB became visible, the universe was an opaque plasma of charged particles.
- Light couldn't escape until the universe cooled enough for hydrogen atoms to form.
CMB Wavelength
- We primarily observe the CMB in the microwave spectrum because the peak wavelength has redshifted over time.
- Photons of other wavelengths exist but are less easily detectable.