Profile Books Calculating the cosmos: how mathematics unveils the universe

Calculating The Cosmos is a fascinating exploration of our cosmos, from the creation of the Earth and our own Solar System, through the Milky Way Galaxy until the end of the universe. Professor Ian Stewart skilfully uses Newtonian Laws of Gravity, Einstein’s Laws of Relativity alongside complex different equations and chaotic dynamics to explain the current theories about the creation of the universe and billions of galaxies – all without asking the reader to understand the maths!Calculating The Cosmos explains how the Newtonian Laws of Gravitation have enabled mathematicians to predict and explain the formation and existence of unknown planets and stars and their orbits, which astronomers have then been able to validate (or sometimes disprove) through observation and measurement. And equally, cosmological observations can be explained through mathematical analyses. Stewart explains how supercomputers running complex models can now determine the chemistry and orbits of stars and galaxies millions of light years away. Today, NASA and the ESA use these same programs to plan trajectories and orbits of space probes.Stewart takes the reader through logical, simple stages from the Earth’s creation to the theories behind Black Holes and Dark Matter, up to the current thinking about the end of the Universe. Each step is presented in an enjoyable and highly readable fashion. Calculating The Cosmos explains an extraordinarily complex subject in a remarkably understandable and interesting way. I have learned so much about how mathematics interacts with astronomy and how astronomy benefits from the open-minded approach of mathematicians, and also about our truly incomprehensible universe. Professor Stewart has expanded my understanding of the Earth, our galaxy and the universe, whilst leaving open so many intriguing questions.

This is an exceptionally useful and well organised book that meets a long-overdue need. It covers all the science that underpins our understanding of the Universe in a way that is easy to understand. It also provides a critical perspective by indicating where orthodox opinion isn't quite as cut & dried as we are led to believe. If you've ever found the idea of dark matter a bit puzzling, or the notion of a simultaneously alive/dead cat, then this book will make you feel a lot less stupid. I think most people who buy it will be like me and already have some knowledge of the subject - in other words they will be coming at it with a lot of questions...and the later chapters are invaluable for anyone troubled by the easy assumptions of the standard model of cosmology.

Present for my husband, who liked it

Great book. Easy to understand and well written

Nice book