It comprises all of existence, any fundamental interaction, physical process and physical constant, and therefore all forms of matter and energy, and the structures they form, from sub-atomic particles to …

Jan 29, 2026 · Discover the universe: Learn about the history of the cosmos, what it's made of, and so much more. Concentrations of matter with gravity so powerful not even light can escape. Collections …

Jan 29, 2026 · Universe, the whole cosmic system of matter and energy of which Earth is a part.

Explore the real distance, motion, and perspective of Earth and Moon in an interactive 3D environment. Perfect as a starting point before diving into deep-space maps. Drag, zoom, and tap for details inside …

1 day ago · When I say that the universe is 13.77 billion years old, it sounds rather authoritative.

Aug 31, 2025 · It tells us that the universe began nearly 13.8 billion years ago in a cataclysmic event known as the Big Bang. From a state of unimaginable density and heat, space itself expanded, …

The universe is filled with an amazing variety of celestial objects. Find out about astronomy through history, how we understand the sky, constellations, sky maps and stars, exoplanets, galaxies, and …

So, the Universe is mainly made of nothing! Only around 5% of its mass is made up of everything we can see. The rest is made of dark matter (27%), which we can't see but can measure, as it still …

These are some of the questions addressed by cosmology, the study of the universe as a whole. Smithsonian astronomers and astrophysicists use observational and theoretical techniques to help …

Dec 15, 2025 · Big Bang science explains the universe origin, key evidence, unresolved tensions, and how new James Webb data is reshaping cosmic history.