DESI Completes 3D Map of the Universe, Surpassing Initial Goals
The Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) has successfully completed its planned 3D map of the universe, significantly surpassing its initial objectives. Originally set to gather data on 34 million galaxies and quasars over a five-year period, DESI has instead captured information on over 47 million galaxies and quasars, along with more than 20 million nearby stars. This achievement marks a major milestone in cosmological research, as DESI has now measured data for six times as many galaxies and quasars as all previous measurements combined. The project, which began data collection in May 2021, faced challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters, yet managed to exceed expectations. DESI will continue its observations through 2028, expanding its map by about 20% to cover more of the sky, particularly areas that are difficult to observe due to bright nearby stars or atmospheric interference.