Baryon acoustic oscillations: Mapping the universe with cosmic echoes
Baryon acoustic oscillations – ripples in the plasma of the early universe – help cosmologists trace its expansion history.
The oldest light in the universe: The cosmic microwave background
Studying ancient light yields clues about the Big Bang, inflation, and the very early history of the universe.
Could we ever travel at the speed of light?
The physics of light-speed travel leave little room for optimism when it comes to achieving this sci-fi fascination.
What more can we expect from the James Webb Space Telescope?
Two years after JWST's launch, it has rewritten the cosmic history books – and the best is yet to come.
Could the “QBism” interpretation solve many of the paradoxes of quantum mechanics?
By focusing on the role of the observer, QBism takes a new approach to quantum mechanics.
Multiverse: Science or Fiction?
Is our universe just one of many? Science journalist Dan Falk examines arguments for and against the multiverse.
Why is the universe so big? And why isn't it bigger?
The universe is unfathomably large, but it could be much larger (or smaller) if it was full of different stuff.
What are kugelblitze – and why can’t they exist?
If you have never heard of kugelblitze, don't feel bad. They do not exist — and nor, new research proves, can they.
We live in a cosmic ocean – metaphorically and mathematically
As organisms made of water on a watery planet, it makes sense that we humans have always likened the universe to a vast sea.
Can hieroglyphs illuminate astrophysics and quantum theory?
Physicists are finding new ways of looking at old problems – and (very) old ways of looking at new problems.
Physics is the truest form of magic
Nature is magical, and learning the secrets behind its wonders only enhances the spell.