The Universe
The Universe is a huge wide-open space that holds everything from the smallest particle to the biggest galaxy. No one knows just how big the Universe is. Astronomers try to measure it all the time. They use a special instrument called a spectroscope to tell whether an object is moving away from Earth or toward Earth. Based on the information from this instrument, scientists have learned that the Universe is still growing outward in every direction.
Scientists believe that about 13.7 billion years ago, a powerful explosion called the Big Bang happened. This powerful explosion set the Universe into motion and this motion continues today. Scientists are not yet sure if the motion will stop, change direction, or keep going forever.
(Words)
Galaxies |
The Milky Way |
Stars |
Quasars |
Black Holes |
Cosmology |
Dark Matter |
Show me the Level 2 version of this page. |
The StarChild site is a service of the High Energy Astrophysics Science Archive Research Center (HEASARC), Dr. Alan Smale (Director), within the Astrophysics Science Division (ASD) at NASA/ GSFC.
StarChild Authors: The StarChild Team
StarChild Graphics & Music: Acknowledgments
StarChild Project Leader: Dr. Laura A.
Whitlock
Curator:
Responsible NASA Official:
If you have comments or questions about the StarChild site, please
send them to us.