Boundaries of Cosmology

This document is a 1990 JPRS report containing an article by Leonid Grishchuk, a doctor of physical and mathematical sciences at the State Astronomy Institute imeni P.K. Shternberg. The article, titled 'Boundaries of Cosmology,' serves two primary purposes: it critiques the state of scientific policy in the Soviet Union and provides a comprehensive overview of contemporary cosmological theories. Grishchuk argues that Soviet scientific policy has suffered from distortions, including the persecution of scientists and a utilitarian focus that neglects basic research. He notes that this environment has led to a loss of interest in scientific achievements and a spread of skepticism. He specifically mentions that even among educated people, there is a prevalence of questions regarding 'flying saucers' and 'space aliens,' which he cites as a symptom of a disoriented understanding of science's role. The author advocates for state protection and support for basic science to maintain the nation's intellectual potential. The remainder of the document is a technical exposition of cosmology. Grishchuk details the evolution of the universe, starting from the historical shift away from a geocentric model to the understanding of the Sun as an ordinary star. He discusses the expansion of the universe, the role of the Hubble constant, the existence of relic radiation, and the chemical composition of matter. He explains the theoretical foundations provided by A.A. Fridman and A. Einstein, and discusses the inflationary hypothesis as a means to explain the homogeneity of the universe and the origin of density perturbations. The document concludes by reflecting on the history of scientific inquiry, citing the persecution of Jordano Bruno as a historical example of the struggle between new scientific assertions and established dogma. Grishchuk emphasizes that mankind is entering a new era of understanding the universe, requiring the participation of all sciences to address fundamental problems, including the existence of non-Earth civilizations.