The universe is far from static; it is expanding continuously over time. This groundbreaking discovery was made by the brilliant astronomer Edwin Hubble. Through his research, Hubble uncovered a phenomenon known as redshift. This occurs when light from distant galaxies stretches out, increasing in wavelength as these galaxies move farther away from us. The greater the distance, the more significant the redshift. This pivotal finding confirmed that the universe, once compact in a singular state, is gradually expanding and continues to do so.
Hubble's discovery led to the realization that the universe is not a fixed, unchanging entity, but an ever-growing expanse. The concept of cosmic expansion fundamentally reshaped our understanding of the cosmos. For example, it implies that the universe has been stretching since the Big Bang, which occurred around 13.8 billion years ago. With galaxies receding from one another, the space between them grows, suggesting an ever-expanding universe.
Understanding this expansion not only alters how we view the universe's past but also its future. It provides insights into the fate of the cosmos, prompting new theories about its ultimate destiny. This discovery has had profound impacts across all scientific disciplines, paving the way for future research and guiding advancements in cosmology, physics, and beyond.
The universe is expanding, and we're just beginning to understand how vast it truly is.
