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Cosmic microwave background
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Cosmic microwave background
Cosmic microwave background. Spherical projection of the cosmic microwave background, using all-sky data from the WMAP (Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe). Since it is a spherical projection, it only shows half the sky. The microwave background is radiation from the beginning of the universe (actually 380, 000 years after its creation) that has been stretched (cooled to around 3 Kelvin) by the expansion of the universe. The colours show the variation in the temperature (then equivalent to density) of the early universe. Denser regions (red, yellow) formed the seeds of galaxies and other structures. Data obtained in 2003
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Media ID 6444051
© NASA/WMAP SCIENCE TEAM/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
2003 Astrophysical Astrophysics Back Ground Beginning Big Bang Cosmic Cosmological Cosmology Cosmos Creation Expansion Finger Print Galaxies Globe Microwave Origin Projection Radiation Round Seed Sphere Spherical Start Temperature Universe Variation
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This print captures the awe-inspiring Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) in a stunning spherical projection. Derived from all-sky data collected by the Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe (WMAP), this image showcases half of the sky, providing us with a glimpse into the origins of our universe. The CMB represents radiation emitted approximately 380,000 years after the Big Bang when the universe was still in its infancy. As space expanded, this radiation stretched and cooled to an incredibly low temperature of around 3 Kelvin. The vibrant colors displayed in this image correspond to variations in temperature and density during that early epoch. Notably, denser regions depicted as red and yellow hues played a crucial role as they served as seeds for galaxies and other cosmic structures we observe today. This visual representation serves as a cosmic fingerprint, allowing scientists to unravel mysteries about our universe's formation. Obtained in 2003, this groundbreaking data has revolutionized cosmology and astrophysics by providing invaluable insights into our place within the cosmos. It is truly remarkable how far humanity has come since its humble beginnings on Earth to be able to capture such profound images that deepen our understanding of existence itself. This extraordinary photograph from Science Photo Library encapsulates both scientific achievement and aesthetic beauty while reminding us of humanity's insatiable curiosity about the vast expanse beyond our planet's boundaries.
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