Dark matter's secrets unraveling: Universe's expansion questioned
This might be one of the greatest mysteries of the cosmos. Recent research suggests that dark matter is even more mysterious than previously thought. Analyses indicate it may change over time, which challenges existing cosmological models. What is happening with dark matter?
Dark matter is a mysterious force that expands the universe but does not emit or reflect electromagnetic radiation. It fascinates researchers who are constantly striving to uncover the truth about it. However, we still know very little. Previous theories might be incorrect, as the latest analyses by the research team suggest that dark energy could have evolved over time. This discovery challenges the standard lambda-CDM cosmological model.
DESI, installed on a telescope in Arizona, measures the redshift of light from distant galaxies. This allows scientists to track how the universe is expanding. Analysis of light from nearly 15 million galaxies indicates the universe may be accelerating more slowly than previously thought.
The universe is expanding, but not as fast as thought
For many years, physicists agreed that the universe was expanding at a specific acceleration rate, known as the cosmological constant lambda, which is attributed to dark energy. However, in April 2024, measurements conducted by DESI suggested the universe might be accelerating at a slower pace, which questions the constancy of this cosmological constant.
Researchers suspect that dark matter may be weakening, and if that is indeed the case, the universe might potentially slow down its expansion. Scientists are considering what constant expansion could mean for the universe and are developing various potential scenarios, speculating about a big crunch and the process of space contraction.
The future of dark energy research
Although the current results have not yet reached the 5 sigma level necessary to confirm a discovery, the DESI team is confident that future data could change this. Research on dark energy plays a crucial role in understanding the future of the universe and may lead to groundbreaking changes in cosmology. DESI research supports other projects like the Nancy Grace Roman Telescope and the Vera Rubin Observatory.
