15.10: Beyond the Big Bang
Why not other theories besides the Big Bang?
There are some astronomers and scientists who do not believe the Big Bang is correct. Other theories have been proposed, including:
- Oscillating Universe: the Universe expands and contracts regularly on an infinite basis. This is sometimes called the Big Bounce in deference to the Big Bang.
- Steady State/Quasi-Steady State: the Universe is as it was and as it will always be… basically no changes. As matter disappears, more matter is ‘created’ to take its place.
- Modification Of Newtonian Dynamics (MOND) . Newton’s laws have changed over the life of the Universe.
- Tired Light: Light loses energy.
These theories and several others similar to these are supported by a very small minority of astronomers. Mostly you will see arguments against the Big Bang and in support of one of these theories.