In 1929, astronomer Edwin Hubble discovered that the Universe is not static, but is constantly expanding. This discovery allowed the concept of the Hubble constant to be introduced. However, this value has given rise to a paradox: the expansion rate of the Universe differs depending on the method of measurement. This contradiction, known as the Hubble tension, has stumped scientists for decades. A new model published in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society offers an unexpected solution to the cosmic conundrum of assuming that the Universe is slowly rotating.
A revolution longer than the life of the Universe
When developing the hypothesis, the researchers derived the assumption that the Universe makes one revolution every 500 billion years — that’s 36 times longer than the age of our Universe (13.8 billion years). This ultra-slow rotation, they believe, could smooth out the discrepancy between the two main methods of measuring the Hubble constant: observations of supernovae and analysis of relic radiation. The difference between these methods reaches 10%, which contradicts the standard cosmological model.
“Our rotational model solves the paradox and does not contradict the current data,” explained astronomer István Szapudi of the University of Hawaii.
Limitations and perspectives
The proposed rotational speed is extremely low – it cannot be detected by modern instruments. However, even this minimal rotation can affect the expansion without requiring a revision of the fundamental laws of physics. The model uses Newtonian mechanics with elements of the general theory of relativity, but as Szapudi noted, an approach based entirely on relativity would be ideal.
Now the study has conventions: the Universe is assumed to be homogeneous, with no change in density. In the future, the team plans to compare their model with other cosmological theories. “We have only touched the surface of the iceberg. The rotation may be part of a bigger picture,” Szapudi added.
Not a new discovery
The idea of a rotating Universe is not new. Back in 1949, mathematician Kurt Gödel described it within the framework of the theory of relativity. Later, Stephen Hawking explored similar models. However, it is only now that scientists have linked this concept to the Hubble tension. According to the authors, rotation is a natural attribute of all cosmic objects – from planets to galaxies – so it is logical to assume it on the scale of the universe.
If the hypothesis is confirmed, it will change the way we look at the evolution of the cosmos. In the meantime, the Universe continues to amaze – not only with its expansion, but also with its ability to move through space like a giant galaxy.
We previously reported on how James Webb and Hubble confounded scientists with new data about the expansion of the Universe.
According to livescience.com
