This controversial book examines one of the most fundamental questions of modern cosmology: how much matter is there in the Universe? This issue affects theories of the origin and evolution of the Universe as well as its geometrical structure and ultimate fate. The authors discuss all the relevant cosmological and astrophysical evidence and come to the conclusion that the balance of arguments presently lies with a density of around twenty per cent of the critical density required for the Universe to ultimately recollapse. Because the arguments presented constitute a 'state-of-the-art' analysis of the observational and theoretical arguments surrounding the existence of dark matter, primordial nucleosynthesis, large-scale structure formation and the cosmic microwave background radiation, this study provides the reader with an indispensable introduction to the most exciting recent developments in modern cosmology. Written by two eminent cosmologists, this topical and provocative book will be essential reading for all cosmologists and astrophysicists.

‘… a very thorough and systematic tour of both the traditional arguments made for and against a high-density Universe and of the latest observational evidence. The broad scope of the physical processes involved, ranging from primordial nucleosynthesis, through the properties of the cosmic microwave background and supernovae to gravitational lensing make this book an ideal introduction to modern observational cosmology.’

Shaun Cole Source: The Observatory

‘I commend this closely-argued and stimulating book to anyone who has a serious interest in contemporary cosmological issues.’

Iain Nicolson Source: Astronomy Now

‘… this book gives a very good review over a broad range of established and more speculative cosmological aspects of the past, present, and future of our universe.’

Michael Bachmann Source: Zentralblatt für Mathematik