Recent observations of the afterglow of the Big Bang, commonly referred to as the Cosmic Microwave Background radiation, have greatly advanced our understanding of the early Universe and have helped reinforce the observational foundations of modern cosmology. This volume provides a comprehensive pedagogical overview of all aspects of the Cosmic Microwave Background radiation. Topics covered include theory, current observations, instrumentation, statistical analyses and the astrophysics of Galactic and other microwave foregrounds. These latter topics are important as much of the contemporary work in cosmology focuses on perfecting experimental techniques and on mitigating and assessing sources of error. Bringing together the latest research and scientific developments from the primary literature into one book, this is a go-to resource for graduate students and researchers working in cosmology and astrophysics.

‘This unique book on cosmology focuses on the physics of the cosmic microwave background, which carries most valuable information about the very early Universe. The author has succeeded in describing the observational aspects and their theoretical implications in a clear and concise manner without going into overly technical details.’

Misao Sasaki - Asia Pacific Center for Theoretical Physics

‘This volume provides an exceptionally comprehensive and current survey of the cosmic microwave background—our most invaluable archive of the early universe. In addition to a complete and in-depth review of the underlying physics, the text offers an exhaustive examination of experimental instrumentation and techniques, deftly balancing foundational pedagogical concepts with cutting-edge developments.’

Paolo de Bernardis - Sapienza University of Rome