AI Insight
The Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) Legacy Imaging Surveys have released their 11th data release, creating the largest two-dimensional map of the universe to date. The survey has captured optical images of tens of millions of galaxies and quasars using facilities including the Mayall 4-meter Telescope at Kitt Peak National Observatory. This mapping effort supports DESI's primary mission to measure the effects of dark energy on cosmic expansion.
Why it matters
This comprehensive 2D map provides crucial data for understanding dark energy and the accelerating expansion of the universe. The large-scale mapping of galaxies and quasars enables astronomers to study cosmic structure evolution and refine models of cosmology.
Understand the Science
In 2012, the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) was commissioned to measure the effect of dark energy, the mysterious force driving the expansion of the cosmos. Since then, the DESI Legacy Imaging Surveys have obtained optical images of tens of millions of galaxies and quasars, including through NOIRLab’s Nicholas U. Mayall 4-meter Telescope at Kitt Peak National Observatory (KPNO). In recent news, the DESI Legacy Imaging Surveys team made its 11th data release (DR 11), constituting the largest-ever 2D map of the universe.
Source: The DESI legacy imaging survey releases the largest 2D map of the universe