The Oxford Handbook of the History of Modern Cosmology is a comprehensive and authoritative account of the historical development of cosmology from the late nineteenth century to the early twenty-first century. Edited by Helge Kragh, this illustrated work offers a rich tapestry of scientific and popular knowledge on modern cosmology. It delves into both the successes and false starts that characterized our understanding of the universe, with a significant focus on the Big Bang theory as well as the now-discredited steady state theory.

The book commences with a chapter on the pre-Einstein period (1860-1910), providing historical context to the theories and ideas that shaped early cosmology. It concludes with contemporary topics such as inflation, dark energy, and multiverse hypotheses, reflecting the rapid advancements in the field. The chapters are organized chronologically, offering a detailed exploration of theory alongside observations and technological developments.

In addition to scientific narratives, several chapters explore broader contexts, including politics, economy, philosophy, and world views, illustrating how these factors have influenced cosmological theories over time. With 628 pages of insightful content, this handbook is an essential resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the fascinating history of modern cosmology.