12 of the Weirdest and Most Mysterious Space Revelations Ever
2. Dark Matter
Dark Energy Overview Found Year: 1998
Discovered By: Adam Riess, Brian Schmidt, and Saul Perlmutter
Location: Throughout the universe
Description:
Dark energy is a mysterious force that constitutes approximately two-thirds of the universe. Discovered in 1998 by a team of astronomers, including Adam Riess, Brian Schmidt, and Saul Perlmutter, dark energy plays a crucial role in the expansion of the cosmos. Despite making up about 95% of the universe alongside dark matter, only about 5% consists of the ordinary, familiar matter we encounter daily.
Key Features: Cosmic Composition: Dark energy and dark matter together account for the vast majority of the universe's mass-energy content. Mysterious Nature: Since its discovery, dark energy has puzzled scientists, leading to ongoing research to understand its properties and implications. Conclusion Dark energy remains one of the most significant and perplexing components of the universe. Its influence on cosmic expansion challenges our understanding of physics and the fundamental nature of reality, making it a key focus for astronomers and physicists alike.
Dark Matter Overview
Description:
Dark matter and dark energy are two fundamental components of the universe, each playing a contrasting role. While dark energy is thought to drive the accelerating expansion of the universe, dark matter exerts gravitational forces that slow down this expansion. The initial evidence for dark energy emerged from measurements of distant supernovae, indicating that the universe's expansion is not only ongoing but accelerating.
Key Discoveries: Supernovae Measurements: The first indications of dark energy were observed through the analysis of supernovae, revealing unexpected brightness that suggested an expanding universe. Galactic Studies: In 2002, further evidence was gathered from a study involving 250,000 galaxies and gravitational lensing data, providing deeper insights into the distribution and effects of dark matter and dark energy. Conclusion The interplay between dark matter and dark energy is crucial for understanding the universe's structure and evolution. Ongoing research continues to unravel the complexities of these mysterious components, shaping our comprehension of cosmic dynamics.
