Observing the edge of the universe to the limit of transparency in the near infrared would not necessarily refute the idea that the cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation is derived from light photons due to the expansion of space. Let's examine this in more detail.
The cosmic microwave background radiation is the afterglow of the Big Bang and is considered one of the most compelling pieces of evidence supporting the Big Bang theory. It is a faint, isotropic radiation that permeates the entire observable universe. According to the prevailing understanding, the CMB originated when the universe transitioned from a hot, dense state to a cooler, transparent state about 380,000 years after the Big Bang. At that time, photons were no longer tightly coupled to matter, allowing them to travel freely through space.
The expansion of space plays a crucial role in the redshift of the CMB photons. As the universe expands, the wavelengths of photons stretching along with it experience a phenomenon known as cosmological redshift. This redshift leads to a shift of the CMB photons from their initial high-energy, high-frequency state to a lower-energy, lower-frequency state in the microwave range.
Observing the edge of the universe to the limit of transparency in the near infrared would allow us to see objects that are at a significant distance from us, potentially closer to the early stages of the universe. However, it does not inherently contradict the idea that the CMB radiation originated from photons affected by the expansion of space.
The CMB radiation permeates the entire observable universe and is thought to have a near-uniform distribution. While observing distant regions may provide insights into earlier cosmic epochs, it does not necessarily challenge the understanding that the CMB radiation is a remnant of the early, hot phase of the universe that has undergone redshift due to the expansion of space.
It's important to note that our understanding of cosmology and the nature of the universe continues to evolve as scientific research progresses. New observations and theoretical developments can refine or expand our understanding of phenomena like the CMB radiation.