Euclid telescope: First images revealed from ‘dark Universe’ mission

Europe’s Euclid telescope is embarking on a mission to unravel the enigmas of the universe by investigating dark matter and dark energy, which are believed to constitute 95% of the cosmos yet remain undetectable through conventional means. The telescope’s task is to meticulously observe billions of galaxies, analyzing their shapes, distances, and movements to detect the subtle effects of these mysterious elements. Through its comprehensive six-year survey covering one-third of the sky, Euclid aims to construct the largest ever 3D cosmic map, hoping to uncover answers within the data.

Despite early technical challenges, such as issues with star tracking and stray light interference, engineers have successfully resolved these problems, and the telescope has demonstrated its readiness through the release of five sample images. These images showcase Euclid’s unparalleled ability to capture vast areas of the sky with exceptional clarity, surpassing the capabilities of previous space telescopes. The Euclid mission, valued at €1.4 billion, is a testament to humanity’s enduring quest for knowledge and understanding of the universe, with the potential to make groundbreaking discoveries about its composition and evolution.

The Euclid telescope’s unique combination of wide field of view, depth, and image sharpness is crucial for detecting the faint signatures of dark matter and dark energy. By examining a variety of celestial objects, from the nearby Horsehead Nebula to ancient globular clusters and irregular galaxies, Euclid will provide insights into the history and structure of the universe. This ambitious project represents a significant step forward in astrophysics, as scientists eagerly anticipate the wealth of information that Euclid will gather over the coming years.