Dark Matter and Dark Energy

Abstract

This is a short review, aimed at a general audience, of several current subjects of research in cosmology. The topics discussed include the cosmic microwave background (CMB), with particular emphasis on its relevance for testing inflation; dark matter, with a brief review of astrophysical evidence and more emphasis on particle candidates; and cosmic acceleration and some of the ideas that have been put forward to explain it. A glossary of technical terms and acronyms is provided.

Submitted for publication in ``Visions of Discovery'' (in honor of Charles Townes), to be published by Cambridge University Press. 53 pages, 13 figures