New research using data from the Dark Energy Survey and upcoming Euclid mission findings has cast doubt on Albert Einstein’s theory of general relativity at cosmic scales. This phenomenon, which was discovered in 1998, indicates that the Universe is expanding at an accelerating rate, a puzzle that has puzzled scientists for decades.
Researchers from the University of Geneva and Toulouse III – Paul Sabatier have developed two key approaches to testing theories beyond Einstein’s general relativity. One approach focuses on broad categories of theories, while the other modifies Einstein’s equations by introducing two functions, μ and η, which describe changes in gravity and metric distortions.
The study analyzed data from 100 million galaxies across four time periods, revealing a discrepancy between Einstein’s predictions and the observed data. According to the researchers, the depth of gravitational wells – regions where gravity deforms space-time – was slightly shallower than predicted by Einstein’s theory at earlier times in the Universe’s history.
This finding is significant, but not enough to definitively challenge Einstein’s general relativity. However, it highlights the need for further research and testing using more precise data from the Euclid space telescope, which will observe 1.5 billion galaxies over its six-year mission.
The study represents a critical step in understanding the Universe and pushing the boundaries of established theories. As scientists continue to refine their understanding of gravity and cosmic expansion, they may ultimately solve one of science’s greatest enigmas.
Source: https://www.thebrighterside.news/post/new-discovery-challenges-einsteins-theory-of-general-relativity