Ancient afterglow of Big Bang shows the universe is older than previously thought

Findings bolster key theory called inflation

space_1357584662585-10946.jpg


(Photo courtesy: Level1Studio)
Copyright Getty Images

Posted: 03/21/2013
Last Updated: 59 days ago

PARIS - New results from a look into the split second after the Big Bang indicate the universe is a bit older than previously thought but the core concepts of the cosmos -- how it began, what it's made of and where it's going -- seem to be on the right track.

The findings bolster a key theory called inflation, which says the universe burst from subatomic size to its now-observable expanse in a fraction of a second.

George Esfthathiou, an astrophysicist who announced the Planck satellite mapping on Thursday, says the findings also offer new specificity of the universe's composition. He says it is made up of slightly more ordinary matter and less of the mysterious dark matter and dark energy.

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


San Diego , CA  
68° Mostly clear

Stay Connected

Send us a News Tip Send us a News Tip
Tablet & iPhone/Android Apps Mobile/Tablet Apps
Twitter Twitter
Facebook Facebook
YouTube YouTube
SanDiegoLaw.tv SanDiegoLaw.tv