DESI Completes 3D Mapping of 47 Million Galaxies and Quasars, Offering Insights Into Dark Energy

Sat, 02 May 2026 18:46:00 +0200

The Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) has successfully completed its five-year survey ahead of schedule, mapping over 47 million galaxies and quasars. This surpasses its original goal of 34 million, creating the largest high-resolution 3D map of the Universe ever assembled. The primary aim of DESI is to study dark energy, the mysterious force driving the accelerated expansion of the cosmos. Preliminary analysis of data from the first three years suggests that the traditional model of dark energy as a constant may be incorrect, hinting that it could be weakening over time. Full analysis of the five-year data is expected to provide more clarity, with initial results anticipated in 2027. DESI will continue observations through 2028, adding roughly 20% more to the map, targeting challenging areas such as regions near the Milky Way’s Zone of Avoidance, fainter and more distant galaxies, and additional nearby stars. By studying these objects, scientists hope to better understand th