The Universe in 100 Colors is a fascinating book that delves into the weird and wondrous colors found in science and nature. Authored by Tyler Thrasher and Terry Mudge, this book takes readers on a journey through the spectrum of colors that exist in our universe.
One of the most intriguing colors discussed in the book is the first color that ever existed in the universe. This bright-hot glowing peachy orange hue emerged approximately 380,000 years after the birth of the universe when it finally cooled to a comfortable 3000 Kelvin. This temperature is equivalent to 2727 degrees Celsius or 4938 degrees Fahrenheit, making it akin to cosmic tank top weather. Prior to this cooling period, the plasma makeup of the infant universe was too dense for light to travel, preventing the formation of any discernible colors.
Today, the average temperature of the universe hovers just below 3 Kelvin, a stark decrease from the primordial 3000 Kelvin. Scientists have deduced this temperature by studying the cosmic background radiation, a remnant of the big bang that serves as a blueprint of the universe’s early stages. During this time, the universe exhibited an evenly distributed temperature with wavelengths characteristic of a blackbody. A blackbody is an object that displays color based solely on its temperature rather than the materials it is composed of.
If humans had the ability to observe this color as it permeated the space-time of the early universe, it would resemble the warm orange glow of a campfire. As the universe aged and cooled, this bright orange hue gradually darkened and faded until it reached a point where the first stars were born, shaping the universe into the familiar form we recognize today.
The book also explores other intriguing color-related phenomena, such as animals’ ability to see only in black and white and debunking common color myths. Through a blend of scientific research and engaging storytelling, The Universe in 100 Colors offers readers a unique perspective on the colorful tapestry of our universe.
For more captivating insights from The Universe in 100 Colors, be sure to check out the book and delve into the myriad hues that define the world around us. Whether you’re a science enthusiast or simply curious about the colors that surround us, this book is sure to spark your imagination and deepen your appreciation for the vibrant spectrum of colors in our universe.
