help

What is the Large Scale Structure of the Universe?

-- | May 3, 2015

Question: What does the structure of the universe look like at the largest scales?

Galaxy cluster are distributed evenly throughout space with no large gaps
There are many more galaxies and clusters in some directions (up and down the milky way’s disk) and very few galaxies in other direction
Linear or wall like distributions of galaxies, clusters, and superclusters surrounding relatively empty regions- like soap bubbles
Galaxies and cluster are very thiny spread out in the near distance, and are more closely packed at greater distances from the milky way

— Jared

Answer: I think that option 3 comes closest to the actual distribution of galaxies in the universe. The large-scale structure of the Universe is made up of filaments and voids. When we look closely at the filaments, we find that they can be broken down into superclusters, clusters, galaxy groups, and finally into galaxies.

Jeff Mangum

Facebook
Pinterest
Twitter
Linkedin

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory is a facility of the U.S. National Science Foundation operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities, Inc.
	Founded in 1956, the NRAO provides state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. NRAO telescopes are open to all astronomers regardless of institutional or national affiliation. Observing time on NRAO telescopes is available on a competitive basis to qualified scientists after evaluation of research proposals on the basis of scientific merit, the capability of the instruments to do the work, and the availability of the telescope during the requested time. NRAO also provides both formal and informal programs in education and public outreach for teachers, students, the general public, and the media.
	The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense..."
	AUI collaborates with the scientific community and research sponsors to plan, build, and operate cutting-edge facilities. We cultivate excellence, deliver value, enhance education, and engage the public.