A massive scientific investigation, involving a consortium of more than 900 scientists from 70 institutions around the world, is unraveling cosmic mysteries with the help of DESI (Dark Energy Analysis Instrument). This device, mounted on the Nicholas Yu. Mayall at Kitt Peak National Observatory in Arizona, a landmark in modern astronomy, has now allowed the best map of the universe ever to be created.
Since 2019, DESI has observed galaxies up to 11,000 million light-years away, allowing scientists to create a 3D map of the universe with unprecedented resolution. This cosmic map offers a unique glimpse into the past, allowing scientists to trace the evolution of the universe from its youth to the present day.
The map was revealed this week, and you can see the model section below
The main focus of DESI research is dark energy, a mysterious force that appears to be accelerating the expansion of the universe. This phenomenon defies the known laws of physics, and represents one of the greatest mysteries in modern astrophysics. The data collected by DESI contribute significantly to our understanding of this cosmic force.
DESI's initial results provide an interesting counterpoint to the Lambda CDM model, the accepted standard model for the structure and evolution of the universe. Although there is general agreement between DESI data and the Lambda CDM model, some discrepancies suggest that our current understanding of dark energy may not be complete.
Cosmic acceleration is an interesting phenomenon that challenges our understanding of gravity, the force that holds the universe together. Cosmic acceleration indicates a repulsive force that is pushing galaxies away from each other rather than attracting them, a mystery scientists are eager to decipher, says ABC.
The level of accuracy achieved by DESI is truly remarkable. With an overall accuracy of 0.5% in measuring the expansion of the universe and a record of 0.82% for the most distant observations, DESI data redefines the standards of astronomical research. Furthermore, DESI pioneered the use of blind analysis, which reduces any bias in the interpretation of results.
DESI data not only expand our current knowledge, but will also be fundamental for future astronomical studies. Projects like the Vera C. Rubin Observatories and the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will use DESI data to complete their own investigations, opening new possibilities for research into the universe.
Nathalie Palanque Delabroy, a co-speaker on the research, expressed her enthusiasm for the results: “It is amazing that, using just one year of data, we can measure the expansion history of the universe at seven different time periods in cosmic time with an accuracy between 1 and 3%.”
An unprecedented collaborative effort between hundreds of scientists from around the world is redefining the boundaries of our understanding of the universe. DESI's initial results shed light on some of the biggest mysteries in astrophysics, such as the nature of dark energy and cosmic acceleration, and promise to revolutionize our understanding of the universe in the coming years.
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