Universe expanding faster: New findings upend cosmic models
Everything we know about space might be false. The latest research indicates that the universe is expanding faster than current physical models predict. What does this mean for us?
The latest measurements suggest that the universe is expanding more quickly than current physical models predict. According to "Live Science," these discoveries may require rewriting cosmological theories. Research published on January 15 in "The Astrophysical Journal Letters" confirms that the universe expands at different rates depending on the place of observation.
Scientists were wrong
The research results are based on observations of a galaxy cluster near our galaxy. Scientists used data from the DESI instrument, which tracks the positions of millions of galaxies. The results obtained indicate a Hubble constant of 76 kilometres/second/Mpc, which contradicts earlier measurements.
All previous calculations may be incorrect
There are two main methods of determining the Hubble constant. The first involves the analysis of the cosmic microwave background, and the second the observation of variable stars of the Cepheid type. Both methods give different results, leading to tensions in cosmological theories and confusion in the scientific world. New discoveries may completely change our perception of the universe.
Professor Dan Scolnic from Duke University, the lead author of the study, emphasizes that current cosmological models may be incomplete. "This could change our thinking about the universe," says Scolnic. Scientists will continue their research to better understand these differences.
The new discoveries present scientists with challenges related to the need to revise cosmological theories. Despite the difficulties, researchers are excited about the possibility of discovering new aspects of the universe. "Surprises in cosmology still await us," adds Scolnic.
Three-dimensional map of the cosmos
According to the latest findings, the rate of the universe's expansion exceeds the predictions contained in current cosmological models. Thanks to the use of the DESI instrument, scientists could create a three-dimensional map of the cosmos, allowing the revelation of discrepancies in the dark energy theory. Current discoveries challenge the standard model of cosmology, suggesting the need for its revision.
Einstein's theory of relativity forms the foundation of modern physics. It has been tested across a broad range, including cosmic scales. DESI's studies confirmed its assumptions but also indicated potential differences in the behaviour of dark energy. This may suggest that dark energy evolves, which requires further studies.
Data from DESI's first year of operation allowed the measurement of the expansion rate up to 11 billion years back, which may help in understanding the role of dark energy.
