Astronomers reveal a chilling countdown to the end of the universe |

For many years, scientists believed the universe would increase endlessly, pushed endlessly outward by a mysterious power referred to as darkish power. But a new examine has upended that view with a provocative concept: the cosmos might someday cease increasing and as an alternative collapse in on itself in a cataclysmic occasion referred to as the “Big Crunch.” According to the analysis, which is at present in preprint and awaiting peer evaluate, this reversal may occur in about 20 billion years. Based on new fashions and recent astronomical knowledge, scientists are rethinking the destiny of the whole lot we all know.

The universe might not increase endlessly

The conventional mannequin of the universe’s destiny was constructed on the assumption that darkish power is fixed and constructive, a power pushing galaxies aside quicker over time. But researchers analysing knowledge from the Dark Energy Survey (DES) and the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) discovered proof that darkish power may not be fixed in any case. Instead, it may range over time, as proposed by a new theoretical framework referred to as the axion-dark power (aDE) mannequin.One of the most putting findings in the new examine is the risk that the cosmological fixed — which displays the power density of house itself — could also be detrimental. If true, this could imply that gravity may ultimately overpower growth. Over time, this shift would trigger the universe’s development to gradual, cease, after which reverse into a contraction part.

What is the Big Crunch

If contraction happens, all matter and power may ultimately be compressed into a single, dense level — an occasion referred to as the Big Crunch. This can be the reverse of the Big Bang. According to the aDE mannequin, the whole lifespan of the universe can be about 33.3 billion years, and we’re already 13.8 billion years into that span. That leaves roughly 20 billion years earlier than the predicted collapse.

Not a last verdict but

Although the findings are vital, scientists warning that this new mannequin just isn’t confirmed. It relies on observational tendencies and evolving theoretical physics. Further investigation utilizing next-generation telescopes and deeper house surveys will likely be wanted to decide whether or not darkish power actually adjustments over time and whether or not a cosmic collapse is on the horizon.

Is the end actually the end

Even if the Big Crunch happens, it may not mark the everlasting end of the whole lot. Some theories suggest that a collapsing universe may ultimately lead to a rebirth — a new Big Bang triggering a recent universe cycle. While these concepts stay speculative, the examine has opened a daring new chapter in understanding how — and when — our universe may end.