Cosmic spin: A new theory tackles the Hubble tension
Does the universe rotate? This is the latest theory that could resolve the Hubble tension problem, which is one of the biggest challenges in modern cosmology.
Scientists from Hungary and the USA have proposed a new model suggesting that the entire universe could be rotating. This concept could solve the problem known as the Hubble tension, concerning discrepancies in measurements of the universe's expansion rate. According to Science Alert, the discrepancy between two different ways of measuring the rate of the universe's expansion is one of the greatest mysteries of the cosmos.
The universe’s rotation as a solution to the puzzle
The research team, including István Szapudi from the University of Hawaii, discovered that adding rotation to the model of the universe might resolve this issue without conflicting with current astronomical observations. According to calculations, the universe could take trillions of years to complete a full rotation, which is consistent with the maximum possible speed.
A rotating universe could explain why galaxies generally spin in the same direction. This is the first application of this idea to the Hubble tension. Solving this problem is crucial for understanding the cosmos, as it influences calculations concerning the age and size of the universe and dark energy.
The Hubble tension arises from differences in measurements of the Hubble constant. One method relies on signals from the early universe, such as cosmic microwave background radiation, giving a result of approximately 68 km/s/Mpc. Another method, based on "standard candles" in the local universe, indicates about 72 km/s/Mpc.
What drives the movement of the universe?
If the universe is indeed rotating, it raises questions about the forces that could cause this. One hypothesis suggests that our universe is at the centre of a black hole in another universe. The next step for researchers is to create a full computer model to help verify this theory.
