Space Time with Ulrich Walter: Mysteries of the Universe

May 10, 2024

Space Time with Ulrich Walter: Mysteries of the Universe

Introduction

  • Humans have always been fascinated by the universe, raising questions about what lies beyond, how everything came into existence, and where we come from.
  • Ulrich Walter, an astronaut and scientist, guides through the incredible aspects waiting in space, including dark matter and dark energy.

Dark Matter and Dark Energy

  • Dark Matter: Invisible, permeates everything, leaves no trace.
    • Contributes to the universe's structure, holding galaxies together despite comprising only about 25% of the universe.
  • Dark Energy: Mysterious force accounting for ~70% of the universe, responsible for its accelerated expansion post-Big Bang.
  • Both are unseen forces significantly impacting the universe's evolution, yet largely unfound and not understood.

The Universe's Structure

  • About 2 million galaxies, each with around 100 billion stars, exist in the visible universe.
  • Despite this, there's an eerie void in space.
  • Modern cosmology traces back to the universe's beginnings, seeking the blueprint of everything.

Black Holes

  • 2019 Breakthrough: First photograph of a black hole's shadow, showcasing gravitational monsters that trap everything, including light.
  • Black holes challenge our understanding of physics with their immense gravity.
  • Galactic Center: The center of our galaxy, the Milky Way, houses a supermassive black hole, influencing star movements and potentially being a significant component of dark matter.

The Search for Planet Nine

  • Astronomers suggest a ninth planet might exist within our Solar System, influencing the orbits of outer celestial bodies.
  • Its potential as a small black hole raises further mysteries in cosmic research.

Understanding Dark Matter and Dark Energy

  • Dark Matter: Essential for the cosmic structure's integrity but remains undetected directly.
  • Dark Energy: A fundamental energy believed to be pushing the universe apart, yet its true nature is uncertain.

Future Explorations

  • Various missions and telescopes aim to uncover more about dark matter and dark energy, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of the cosmos.
  • Despite advancements, the majority of the universe remains a mystery, challenging our perceptions and theories about space and time.

Conclusion

  • Dark matter and dark energy encapsulate some of the largest mysteries of our universe.
  • Scientists continue their quest to unveil these enigmatic forces, holding the key to comprehending the universe's full extent.