A recent study on the large-scale structure of the universe has led cosmologists to a surprising discovery. Through continuous observations of the distribution of galaxies in outer space, scientists have gained a new understanding of the long-debated issue regarding the fractal nature of our Universe. The answer to this question, as it turns out, is far more complex than a simple “yes” or “no.”
On a cosmic scale, it has been revealed that approximately two trillion galaxies form a highly intricate hierarchical system. Starting at the basic level, small groups of up to twelve galaxies are clustered together to form larger groups, which in turn create clusters numbering in the thousands of star systems. Towering above these clusters are massive superclusters, spanning millions of light years throughout the Universe.
Back in the mid-20th century, mathematician Benois Mandelbrot revolutionized the study of fractals, elevating it to a new level. While mathematicians had previously explored self-replicating structures, it was Mandelbrot who popularized the term “fractal” and established the groundwork for our modern comprehension of this phenomenon. Fractals are intricate structures wherein the same pattern repeats infinitely at various levels, maintaining its shape regardless of the scale or distance observed. Picture a triangle composed of smaller triangles, each made up of identical triangles…and so forth.
The natural world is abundant with fractal patterns, from the branching of trees to the intricate designs of snowflakes. Mandelbrot proposed that the Universe itself might also possess a fractal nature, exhibiting recurring patterns across different scales. Initially, the hierarchical arrangement of celestial bodies seemed to support this notion.
However, further investigations have revealed a disruption in the pattern around the 300-million-light-year scale. At this point, the universe transitions into a state of homogeneity, where larger structures cease to form. Nonetheless, certain components of the cosmic web still exhibit fractal characteristics – such as galaxies with dark matter, forming nested systems of varied sizes.
Even within cosmic voids, which may sound empty, faint dwarf galaxies are found, creating a subtle, miniature version of a cosmic nesting doll. Computer simulations have indicated the existence of smaller internal networks within these voids as well.