The invisible universe
Chapter 1
The mystery of missing mass
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Chapter 2
Mapping the invisible
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Chapter 3
The runaway cosmos
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Chapter 4
The ultimate fate of the universe
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YOUR GOAL
Master of The invisible universe
Ch 4 · The ultimate fate of the universe
teacher Dark energy is pushing us far, (so far!) We're freezing out every last star! (yeah, every star!)
Fun Fact
Cosmic baby picture: The Cosmic Microwave Background is the oldest light in the universe, dating back to 380,000 years after the Big Bang.
Glossary
dark energy (noun)
A hypothetical form of energy that is postulated to accelerate the expansion of the universe. Discovered by astronomers in 1998, this force may drive the cosmos toward an endless, cold Big Freeze.
A hypothetical form of energy that is postulated to accelerate the expansion of the universe. Discovered by astronomers in 1998, this force may drive the cosmos toward an endless, cold Big Freeze.
Quiz
What could happen in the 'Big Rip' scenario if dark energy becomes infinitely strong?
Quiz
In the cosmic tug-of-war, what is dark matter trying to do to the structure of the universe?
Quiz
What is the name of the cosmic fate where dark energy expands the universe forever until all stars freeze and die?
Quiz
Which European Space Agency satellite, active from 2009 to 2013, provided the most precise map of the Cosmic Microwave Background?
Quiz
What is the term for the theoretical scenario where gravity eventually wins and collapses the universe back into a singularity?
Quiz
What percentage of the universe is made of normal, visible matter like stars, planets, and gas?
Quiz
What is the Cosmic Microwave Background, which helps scientists study the early universe's composition?