An international research team has recently introduced the most extensive and intricate 3D map of the universe ever produced. 

The map tracks the expansion of the universe over a remarkable span of 11 billion years, providing a new depth of understanding about cosmic development.

The map was made possible by the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) survey, with data analysed using software developed by Dr Cullan Howlett of The University of Queensland.

It allows scientists to gain insights into dark energy, a key force propelling the universe's expansion.

“The software models the size and shape of the Baryon Acoustic Oscillation (BAO) feature,” explained Dr Howlett. 

This ancient remnant from the universe's early sonic landscape acts as a cosmic yardstick. “By comparing the size of BAOs at various points in time and space, we effectively measure how fast the universe has expanded,” he added.

The mapping effort involved recording the spatial coordinates and distances of millions of galaxies. 

Each galaxy's unique spectral ‘fingerprint’ - its chemical signature - helps scientists pinpoint its distance from Earth. 

“We decoded that fingerprint, identified the individual elements, and compared the measured frequencies to those in a lab on Earth to get the distance from us,” Dr Howlett said.

Dr Ryan Turner from Swinburne University of Technology developed statistical tools crucial for measuring galaxy movements. 

“This is like going from a hand-drawn map to a satellite image,” Dr Turner said. 

“With more detail, we gain a clearer picture of our cosmic neighbourhood and beyond.”

The latest findings have revealed more than 6 million galaxies, significantly expanding the cosmic catalogue. These discoveries have brought up new questions about dark energy and the broader dynamics of cosmic expansion.

“Findings suggest that dark energy may not be constant over time,” says Dr Seshadri Nadathur, a senior research fellow at the University of Portsmouth. 

This evolving understanding could reshape fundamental physics, the concept of the Big Bang, and the universe's long-term trajectory.

With the ongoing DESI survey expected to uncover more data, researchers are optimistic about refining the world’s comprehension of the universe's structure and the underlying forces at play. 

“We look forward to further revelations that could redefine our knowledge of the universe,” Dr Turner concluded.

The DESI data is available online.