Astrophysicists at the University of Cambridge have proposed an alternative way to measure dark energy, a hypothetical form of energy that explains the accelerating expansion of the universe. Instead of analyzing the galaxies of the early universe, the convergence rate and orbits of the Milky Way and Andromeda can be studied.

These two galaxies are not only side by side, but are heading towards each other before a future collision. Under the influence of gravitational forces, they should begin to rotate very slowly around their common center of mass as they approach. One revolution is about 20 billion. But long before full circle, due to enormous forces, in about five billion years the Milky Way and Andromeda will begin to merge.

Studies have shown that multidirectional forces will act on galaxies in this process. According to Einstein’s theory, they will come together under the influence of gravity, but at the same time, dark energy (if any) has to be opposed.

The researchers developed a model that uses the masses and orbits of galaxies to set an upper bound on the cosmological constant. This is the simplest model to describe dark energy. The analysis showed that with existing errors, this indicator could be five times higher than the value calculated by Planck based on observations of distant supernovae.

The current calculation error is too high. Presented only to illustrate a method that needs to be refined. Researchers believe it is possible to increase the accuracy of measuring the masses and orbits of galaxies and reduce the calculation error with the help of a modern NASA space telescope.

Additionally, the same method can be used to analyze other converging galaxies. Together, the different measurement methods will help confirm the existence of dark energy and study its nature.