CMB Anisotropies: A Decadal Survey

Abstract

We review the theoretical implications of the past decade of CMB anisotropy measurements, which culminated in the recent detection of the first feature in the power spectrum, and discuss the tests available to the next decade of experiments. The current data already suggest that density perturbations originated in an inflationary epoch, the universe is spatially flat, and baryonic dark matter is required. We discuss the underlying assumptions of these claims and outline the tests required to ensure they are robust. The most critical test - the presence of a second feature at the predicted location - should soon be available. Further in the future, secondary anisotropies and polarization should open new windows to the early and low(er) redshift universe.