Black holes the size of atomic nuclei, “cannibal” galaxies, and particles capable of piercing through thick layers of lead several kilometers deep are just a few of the most shocking discoveries about the universe beyond Earth.

Mysteries of the Universe

Antimatter

Just like superheroes or bats, the particles that make up matter always have opposing counterparts. For example, an electron carries a negative charge, while its antimatter counterpart, the positron, has a positive charge. Matter and antimatter annihilate each other upon collision, and their mass is converted into energy according to Einstein’s formula E=mc². In the future, some spacecraft may be equipped with antimatter engines.

(Image: Space)

Microscopic Black Holes

If a new theory about gravity is proven correct, it could be said that scattered throughout our solar system are tens of thousands of microscopic black holes, each no larger than an atomic nucleus. Unlike the massive black holes that are often discussed, microscopic black holes are remnants of the Big Bang—the event believed to have birthed the universe. They influence spacetime in a completely different manner from their massive counterparts due to their connection with the fifth dimension in space.

Thousands of “mini black holes” like this are scattered throughout the solar system. (Image: Space)

Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation

Also known as CMB, this radiation is the remnant from the Big Bang that created the universe. It was first discovered in the 1960s as a noise in radio signals and appears to emanate from all directions in space. CMB is considered one of the best pieces of evidence supporting the Big Bang theory. Recently, precise measurements from the WMAP project showed the CMB temperature at -455 degrees F (-270 degrees C).

(Image: Space)

Dark Matter

Scientists believe that dark matter makes up a significant portion of the total matter in the universe. However, even with the most advanced technologies, they have yet to prove this hypothesis. It is thought that ultra-light neutrino particles and invisible black holes are part of dark matter. Nevertheless, many astronomers remain skeptical about its existence, suggesting that the mysteries surrounding dark matter can only be explained when we have a better understanding of gravity.

Dark matter. (Image: Space)

Exoplanets

Until the early 1990s, the only known planets in the universe were the familiar members of our solar system. Since then, astronomers have identified over 500 exoplanets (as of November 2010). These exoplanets are classified from massive gas giants to small rocky planets orbiting dim red dwarfs. The search for a second Earth continues, with astronomers generally believing that better technology will eventually reveal worlds similar to ours.

An exoplanet outside our solar system. (Image: Space)

Gravitational Waves

As early as 1916, brilliant physicist Einstein predicted the existence of gravitational waves in his general theory of relativity. According to Einstein’s definition, gravitational waves are geometric disturbances in spacetime that propagate at the speed of light.

Regarding their origin, it is hypothesized that massive and rapidly moving celestial bodies may emit gravitational waves, similar to the electromagnetic wave emissions from charged particles. However, some believe that only non-spherical objects can emit gravitational waves. Due to the extremely weak nature of gravitational waves, scientists cannot produce them in a laboratory. They must rely on violent cosmic events, such as the merger of two black holes or two neutron stars, to measure this type of wave.

Gravitational waves resemble waves on water. (Image: Space)

“Cannibals” in the Universe

Just like creatures on Earth, galaxies can “consume” each other, thereby evolving. The Andromeda galaxy, located near the Milky Way, is in the process of engulfing many of its satellites. More than a dozen star clusters are scattered throughout Andromeda, which scientists believe are remnants of the galaxy’s “meals.” The image on the right simulates the collision between Andromeda and our Milky Way, an event that occurs roughly every 3 billion years.

A simulated image of the collision between the Andromeda galaxy and the Milky Way. (Image: Space)

Neutrinos

These are fundamental particles that carry no charge and have almost no mass. Neutrinos can travel through a thick layer of lead several kilometers deep. Some neutrinos are passing through your body as you read this article. These “ghost” particles are generated in the fiery cores of stars and during the violent explosions (supernovae) of dying stars.

Neutrinos. (Image: Space)

Quasars

These are celestial objects with diameters less than a light-year, yet they are among the strongest sources of radiation. Even at the far edges of the universe, the light from quasars reaches our planet. Their existence reminds scientists of the chaos during the early dawn of the universe. The energy released by a quasar is vastly greater than that of hundreds of galaxies. The only thing scientists agree upon is that quasars are gigantic black holes located at the centers of distant galaxies.

An image of a quasar named 3C 273, taken in 1979. (Image: Space)

Vacuum Energy

Quantum physics tells us that contrary to appearances, empty space is a “virtual” froth of subatomic particles constantly being created and destroyed. Virtual particles contribute a certain amount of energy to every cubic centimeter of space, which, according to general relativity, creates a repulsive gravitational force pushing space apart. However, no one understands what is truly causing the universe’s rapid expansion.