Cosmology
13 articles on the Big Bang, dark energy, and the fate of the universe
The Birth of the Universe
From an infinitely dense point, the cosmos erupted into existence 13.8 billion years ago. Trace the first moments of the Big Bang and what came after.
Dark Energy May Be Weakening
New evidence from the DESI survey suggests dark energy, the mysterious force driving cosmic acceleration, may not be constant after all.
The Hubble Tension
Two different methods of measuring the universe's expansion rate give conflicting answers. This tension could point to new physics beyond the Standard Model.
What Triggered the Big Bang?
What caused the universe to begin? From quantum fluctuations to cosmic inflation, explore the leading theories on the ultimate origin.
Before the Big Bang: What Existed?
Was there time before the Big Bang? Physicists grapple with the concept of a universe that might be part of a cyclic or multiverse reality.
The Heat Death of the Universe
In the far future, stars will burn out, galaxies will dissolve, and the cosmos will reach maximum entropy. Explore the ultimate fate of everything.
Cosmic Microwave Background
The oldest light in the universe reveals the seeds of all cosmic structure. Learn how this ancient afterglow teaches us about the infant universe.
Cosmic Inflation: The Universe's Growth Spurt
In the first trillionth of a trillionth of a second, the universe expanded faster than the speed of light. Inflation explains why the cosmos looks the way it does.
The Shape of the Universe
Is the universe flat, spherical, or saddle-shaped? The geometry of spacetime holds clues to the ultimate fate and origin of the cosmos.
Multiverse Theories
Could our universe be just one of many? From the many-worlds interpretation to eternal inflation, explore the scientific case for parallel universes.
The Big Crunch: An Alternative Ending
If dark energy weakens or reverses, the universe could collapse back on itself in a fiery Big Crunch. Explore this dramatic possible fate.
Dark Matter vs. Dark Energy
Together they make up 95% of the universe, but they couldn't be more different. Understand the distinction between these two cosmic mysteries.
The First Stars: Cosmic Dawn
After the dark ages, the first stars ignited and transformed the universe. These Population III stars were unlike anything in existence today.