Topics

This is a list of possible topics for the class presentation. You are not limited to this list, but you should discuss the topic you choose with me. There is no "right" outcome. I want you to dig into the literature, learn something about a particular topic, think critically about it, and report it in a sensible manner to the rest of us. It does not matter if in the end you think what you've learned is the greatest thing since sliced bread or a big pile of rubbish. It is important to express why a particular topic/measurement/whatever is neat and important, but it is equally important to remain skeptical and point out the problems and limitations which are sometimes glossed over.

Parameter Estimation

Classic Tests

Large Scale Structure

Microwave Background

Primordial, or Big Bang Nucleosynthesis (BBN)

Dark Matter

Alternative Cosmologies

for the bold and brave