KIDS Dark Matter Map

Cosmology

Not-So-Clumpy Dark Matter Poses Cosmological Challenge

Astronomers analyzing a new sky survey have found that the distribution of dark matter in the modern universe is smoother than predicted from observations of a far younger universe.

Planck_polarization_image_of_BICEP2_field

Science-based Q&A

The Kavli Foundation Q&A: What Has Planck Taught Us About the Early Universe?

Scientist George Efstathiou weighs in on the latest results from the Planck satellite and what they say about cosmic inflation, the first stars, and more.

cosmic microwave background polarization

Cosmology

Planck Upholds Standard Cosmology

The Planck team has finally released its full-mission data, revealing a remarkably detailed view of our universe and our galaxy.

dust polarization emission at galactic poles

Cosmology

Dust Makes Cosmic Inflation Signal Iffy

A new analysis of Planck data bolsters the claim that the polarization signal heralded as evidence for cosmic inflation is from dust instead.

Planck map with cosmic infrared background

Milky Way

Big Bang Inflation Evidence Inconclusive

New analyses suggest that observations heralded as evidence for the universe’s brief growth spurt don’t conclusively show what researchers thought they did.

Milky Way's magnetic field

Cosmology

Planck's Magnetic Map of Our Galaxy

The ESA's Planck mission has released one of the most detailed maps of the Milky Way's magnetic field.

Cosmology

Planck Spacecraft Shut Down

After four years of exquisite observations, the latest mission to study the universe's earliest light has been shuttered. But this end is a happy one and comes with a significant cosmological legacy.

Space Missions

Planck: Best Map Yet of Cosmic Creation

Planck mission scientists have released the first half of their observations of the cosmic microwave background. The results are a stunning confirmation of today's standard model for how the universe formed and grew. But they also raise some head-scratchers.