The study’s lead author, Robin Wen, a mathematical physics graduate from Waterloo, emphasized the importance of Einstein’s theory for a variety of cosmic events, including the conceptualization of the Big Bang and the observation of black holes.

However, disagreements arise upon careful examination of the behavior of gravity on a cosmic scale, especially in terms of galaxy clusters and beyond.

In describing this phenomenon, Wen observed:

Gravity itself seems to deviate slightly from Einstein’s predictions. We call this deviation, where gravity appears to be about one percent weaker at distances spanning billions of light-years, the “cosmic glitch.”

Adjustment

In response to this cosmic conundrum, the research team proposed a modification to Einstein’s theory similar to the annotation. According to Wehn, this adjustment becomes meaningful when we deal with astronomical distances, introducing what he calls “terms and conditions.”

Co-author Niayesh Afshordi, a professor of astrophysics at the University of Waterloo, highlighted a long-standing puzzle facing astronomers and physicists regarding the accelerating expansion of the universe. Afshordi noted that as galaxies move away, their speed increases and they approach the cosmic speed limit determined by Einstein’s theory.

The team’s proposed solution could be a first step towards solving the cosmic mystery and a potential breakthrough in understanding the universe on large temporal and spatial scales. As Afshordi puts it, “this new model could serve as a starting point for deciphering a cosmic puzzle spanning space and time.”