New research by Canterbury University scientists suggests that dark energy doesn't actually exist.
For years, physicists have believed the universe was expanding equally in all directions, and used the concept of "dark energy" to explain this.
Now, a team of New Zealand physicists led by Professor David Wiltshire analysed light curves from the Pantheon+ supernovae to show the universe was expanding in a "lumpier" way.
The new study - published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society - showed the idea of "dark energy" isn't needed at all.
Instead, it proposed a different model - called timescape cosmology - to understand the evolution of the universe.
The scientists said the findings - together with new data - implied "profound consequences" for cosmology and astrophysics, and may help resolve the universe's biggest mystery within five years.
Research by the New Zealand scientists was supported by the Marsden Fund, which earlier this year announced changes to its terms of reference that have been roundly criticised by the science community.
To sum it all up, the Universe is more intricate than any simple map might reveal. If the timescape model holds up under further scrutiny, there could be wide-ranging effects on cosmic models, especially those that rely on dark energy as a key ingredient.
Astronomers, physicists, and cosmologists will be watching closely as more data come in from cutting-edge surveys and instruments.
These results might bring clarity to the Hubble tension or uncover new clues about the structure and history of everything around us.
Dark energy has been the leading explanation for cosmic acceleration for decades. Yet, if local gravitational differences and variable clock speeds can account for what we see, the door may be open to a more nuanced story of cosmic growth.
There is no shortage of skepticism within the scientific community, but unexpected solutions to old puzzles are often how we expand our understanding of the Universe.
If the timescape approach stands the test of fresh observations, future textbooks might look a little different.
The kiwi professor David Wiltshire has been fighting the "dark energy overlords" for decades. (Google him)
Intelligent design loonies will have a second chance to reignite their careers now.
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for decades. (Google him)
