Scientists have completed the largest-ever 3D map of the universe, charting over 47 million galaxies and quasars using the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI).
The five-year survey at Kitt Peak National Observatory exceeded expectations, capturing data across 14,000 square degrees and spanning 11 billion years of cosmic history.
This unprecedented dataset will help researchers investigate the nature of dark energy and could challenge current models of cosmic expansion and evolution.
Beyond dark energy, what secrets about dark matter will this map unlock?
Can this new map finally resolve the universe's conflicting expansion rate measurements?
How did 5,000 robotic eyes map 11 billion years of cosmic history?
What if the force accelerating our universe's expansion is actually weakening?
Could our universe be heading for a 'Big Crunch' instead of expanding forever?
Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument Completes Record 3D Universe Map with 47 Million Objects
Overview
In April 2026, the DESI collaboration, involving over 900 researchers worldwide, completed the largest-ever 3D map of the universe, capturing light from 47 million galaxies and quasars plus 20 million stars. This achievement was made possible by DESI's advanced design featuring 5,000 robotic positioners and powerful optics, following construction that began in 2015 and overcoming challenges like the 2020 COVID-19 shutdown. The detailed map reveals cosmic evolution over 11 billion years and provides data hinting that dark energy may be weakening, challenging Einstein's cosmological constant. Public data releases and ongoing survey extensions through 2028 promise even deeper insights into dark energy and dark matter.