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How could the universe accelerate without dark energy? Here is what study says

Scientists propose a new gravity theory using Friedmann equations. Their model explains the universe’s accelerating expansion naturally, challenging dark energy and offering fresh insights into cosmic evolution.

January 12, 2026 / 14:31 IST
Scientists propose a new gravity theory using Friedmann equations. (Image: Canva)
Snapshot AI
  • A new gravity theory explains cosmic acceleration without dark energy.
  • Acceleration arises from spacetime structure, not unknown energy or particles.
  • Team confirms theory matches data through simulations and modeling.

Cosmologists have long puzzled over the universe’s accelerating expansion. Most attribute this to a mysterious force called dark energy. Dark energy supposedly makes up nearly seventy percent of the cosmos. However, no one has ever detected it directly or understood it. Now, a new theory of gravity could provide a bold alternative.

What Makes the Universe Speed Up Naturally?

Scientists applied the extended theory to Friedmann equations describing cosmic expansion. They discovered acceleration emerges without adding any unknown energy component.

The universe speeds up purely due to the structure of spacetime. No invisible force or exotic particle is required to explain observations. This finding could rewrite the way cosmologists think about cosmic evolution.

What is the Theory to Friedmann Equations?

The Friedmann equations describe how the universe expands over time. They are derived from Einstein’s general relativity and apply to cosmology. These equations relate the universe’s expansion rate to energy and matter.

Dark energy is usually added to explain accelerating expansion mathematically. In the new model, acceleration arises without needing dark energy at all.

Who Is Behind This Radical Idea?

The team comes from the University of Bremen, Germany. Collaborators also include scientists from Transylvanian University of Brașov, Romania. They combined expertise in theoretical physics and cosmology to test ideas.

Computer simulations and mathematical modelling confirmed the theory matches observed data. This cross-border collaboration highlights the global nature of modern physics research.

Could This Change the science of Cosmos?

The study challenges a long-standing assumption about dark energy existence. It suggests the universe’s acceleration may emerge from gravity’s deeper nature. If true, it could simplify our understanding of the cosmos fundamentally.

Scientists could explain observations without inventing an entirely new energy type. This discovery encourages researchers to rethink the standard cosmological model carefully.

What Will Future Observations Reveal?

Physicists now plan to test predictions against precise astronomical observations. Telescopes and satellites could detect subtle deviations predicted by this theory. Future surveys of distant galaxies might confirm or challenge this extended gravity. The work invites a fresh debate over the nature of the universe.

first published: Jan 12, 2026 02:31 pm

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