Could the universe be spinning like a giant top? This idea, proposed by physicist Nikodem Poplawski, opens surprising perspectives concerning dark energy and the structure of the cosmos.
Observations from the James Webb Space Telescope have revealed that two-thirds of galaxies rotate in the same direction. This discovery suggests a lack of randomness in galaxy orientation, which could indicate an overall rotation of the universe. Such rotation would have major implications for our understanding of dark energy and the structure of the universe.
According to Poplawski, if the universe is spinning, it would imply the existence of an external frame of reference—and thus a multiverse. This theory aligns with the idea that each black hole could be a gateway to another universe. Black holes, which also rotate, might transmit this spin to the universe they generate.
Dark energy, the mysterious force accelerating the expansion of the universe, could be linked to this rotation. Poplawski suggests that the centrifugal force caused by the universe's spin might explain dark energy and its observed weakening. This hypothesis offers an alternative to traditional cosmological models.
Future research, particularly concerning the motion of galaxy clusters and the asymmetry of galaxy rotation axes, could confirm this theory. A better understanding of dark energy and its evolution over time is also crucial for validating these ideas.
Poplawski is currently working on an equation describing how the cosmological constant, generated by the universe's angular velocity, decreases over time. Comparing this theoretical prediction with observations could mark a significant breakthrough in our understanding of the universe.
A timeline of the universe and its expansion, born in a black hole?
Credit: NASA/WMAP What is dark energy?
Dark energy is a hypothetical form of energy that permeates all of space and is responsible for the accelerating expansion of the universe. Unlike dark matter, which acts as an attractive force, dark energy has a repulsive effect.
Its existence was proposed to explain astronomical observations that do not align with the known laws of gravity. As its name suggests, dark energy is not directly observable, and its exact nature remains one of the greatest mysteries in cosmology.
Scientists use various instruments, such as the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI), to study dark energy. Recent observations suggest that this force may be weakening over time, challenging current cosmological models.
Understanding dark energy is essential for grasping the ultimate fate of the universe. Depending on its nature, the universe could continue expanding indefinitely, tear apart, or even collapse back on itself.
How does a spinning universe influence our understanding of the cosmos?
A spinning universe introduces an absolute frame of reference, contradicting the principle of relativity that all motion is relative. This would imply that the universe spins relative to something external, suggesting the existence of a multiverse.
This rotation could also explain certain observed anomalies in galaxy distribution and motion. For example, the preferential alignment of galaxy rotation axes might be a consequence of the universe's overall spin.
Poplawski's theory links this rotation to universe formation via black holes. According to this idea, each spinning black hole would generate a new universe whose rotation is inherited from the parent black hole.
If confirmed, this theory could revolutionize our understanding of the universe's structure and origin. It would also open new avenues for exploring the nature of dark energy and the possibility of other universes.