We have entered the "Golden Age of Cosmology," where modern technology is allowing scientists to chart the cosmos to a depth and precision unimaginable until recent years. The amassing of this new data has had a profound impact on our understanding of the origin and evolution of the universe. The Routledge Critical Dictionary of the New Cosmology is designed to be your guide through this exciting period. The clear, concise essays by leading cosmologists provide introductions to various aspects of the subject, and allow new developments to be placed in context. The essays are cross-referenced to an alphabetical dictionary giving in-depth explanations of key words and concepts as well as biographical entries on the major figures in cosmology. This volume can be used to focus on a particular theme or to explore the big picture.