Cosmic Background Radiation Unveiled: A 1964 Discovery that Rewrote the Universe

According to the book, the background hiss detected in 1964 was initially attributed to pigeons roosting in the antenna, but it was later revealed to be cosmic background radiation from the Big Bang. The authors note that this discovery has far-reaching implications for our understanding of the universe and its origins. "This cosmopolitan sound collection opens with a background hiss that was detected in 1964," Vieser and Yuen write in their book. "Astronomers first blamed it on pigeons roosting in their antenna before realizing that it was cosmic background radiation from the Big Bang." The book also explores the sounds of icebergs cracking and the mysterious music created by tapping stone pillars in a medieval Hindu temple in India. These sounds, often overlooked in everyday life, hold significant stories and insights into the natural world. "We're trying to tell the stories behind sounds that might otherwise seem mundane or ordinary," Vieser and Yuen explained in an interview. The publication of "These are a few of my favourite sounds: Books in brief" comes at a time when researchers are increasingly exploring the intersection of sound and science. In a related development, neurobiologist Yossi Yovel has published a book titled "The Genius Bat," which delves into the fascinating world of bats. Yovel's book highlights the diversity of bat species, with over 1,500 species spread across six continents, making them the most diverse order among mammals. Yovel's work has significant implications for our understanding of the natural world and the complex relationships between species. "Bats are amazing," Yovel writes in his book. "With almost 1,500 species, they are the most diverse order among mammals, making up more than 20% of all mammal species." Yovel's book also raises important questions about the nature of consciousness and the experiences of other species. "We still cannot answer philosopher Thomas Nagel's famous question, 'What is it like to be a bat?'" Yovel notes. The publication of "These are a few of my favourite sounds: Books in brief" and "The Genius Bat" highlights the growing interest in interdisciplinary research and the importance of exploring the stories behind ordinary sounds and phenomena. As researchers continue to push the boundaries of knowledge, these books offer valuable insights into the natural world and the complex relationships between species and their environments.