Beginning with an overview of the scientific method, "The Big Bang" follows the pioneering observations of Edwin Hubble and the early insights in cosmological theory by Alexander Friedmann and Father Georges Lemaitre.

Edwin Hubble and the 20th century universe -- Proving the big bang : the cosmic microwave background -- A new, faster, darker universe -- Cosmic extremes : the beginning of space and time -- Freezings : a history of the universe in phases -- The next big questions.