An alternative explanation of the COBE data

Conference · Sat Dec 31 04:00:00 EST 1994

OSTI ID:63051

Lerner, E J

The COBE data on cosmic background radiation (CBR) isotropy and spectrum are generally considered to be explicable only in the context of the Big Bang theory and to be confirmation of that theory. However, this data can also be explained by an alternative, non-Big Bang model which hypothesizes an intergalactic radio-absorbing and scattering medium. Dense, force-free magnetic filaments generated by quasars, active galactic nuclei and Herbig-Haro objects can remain stable in the intergalactic medium for many Gy. They will be opaque to radiation with wavelengths longer than 100--400 microns, and essentially transparent to shorter wavelengths. They are thus capable of thermalizing and isotropizing the cosmic background radiation, and of accounting for the observed decrease of radio luminosity of galaxies within increasing distance from earth. A simple, inhomogeneous model of such an absorbing medium can reproduce both the isotropy and spectrum of the CBR within the limits observed by COBE. Such a model does not contradict any other observations, such as the existence of distance radio sources.

• OSTI ID: 63051
• Report Number(s): CONF-940604--; ISBN 0-7803-2006-9
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

66 PHYSICS
BACKGROUND RADIATION
COSMIC RADIATION
COSMIC RADIO SOURCES
COSMOLOGICAL MODELS
INTERGALACTIC SPACE
RADIOWAVE RADIATION