The formation of galaxies is one of the greatest puzzles in astronomy, the solution is shrouded in the depths of space and time, but has profound implications for the universe we observe today. This book discusses the beginnings of the process from cosmological observations and calculations. It examines the different theories of galaxy formation and shows where each theory either succeeds or fails in explaining what we actually observe. In addition, the book looks ahead to what we may expect to uncover about the epoch of galaxy formation from the new and upcoming generations of telescopes and technology.

Inhalt

A cosmological cartoon.- Galaxies today.- The fossil record in nearby galaxies.- Measuring galaxies.- Galaxy evolution.- The intergalactic medium.- The initial conditions before galaxy formation.- Active galactic nuclei in the early universe.- Approaching the Dark Ages.- The processes of galaxy formation.- Forward to the past-what can new eyes expect to see?.