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Euclid Space Telescope Unlock the Universe: ESA Delivers the Most Detailed Cosmic Model in History

Image from the Euclid Flagship simulations catalogue. Each dot is a galaxy: blue highlights central galaxies within dark matter clumps, red marks their satellite companions. Credit: Jorge Carretero & Pau Tallada, Port d’Informació Científica / Euclid Consortium.

The European Space Agency (ESA) has marked a new chapter in astronomy with the Euclid project, which has unveiled the most detailed synthetic model of the cosmos to date. Built upon pioneering algorithms designed by University of Zurich (UZH) astrophysicist Joachim Stadel, the Flagship 2 galaxy mock recreates the universe with unparalleled precision—containing a staggering 3.4 billion galaxies and 400 measurable traits.

This ambitious model will serve as a critical guide for analyzing data from ESA's Euclid space telescope, launched in June 2023, offering scientists insights into dark matter, dark energy and the very structure of our universe.

For more global scientific breakthroughs, visit FSNews365.

A Universe Recreated: Building the Flagship 2 Model

The Flagship 2 galaxy mock is more than just a simulation; it is the largest virtual cosmos ever constructed. To create it, Stadel developed an advanced algorithm in 2019 that was executed on the Piz Daint supercomputer at the Swiss National Supercomputing Center (CSCS) in Lugano—then ranked as the world's third most powerful computer.

Over 80% of its processing power was dedicated to this project, tracking the gravitational pull of four trillion particles to simulate the evolution of cosmic structures.

"Simulating such a vast stretch of the universe in one calculation was an immense challenge," Stadel explained.

Once the foundation was laid, galaxies visible to Euclid were inserted, giving astronomers a lifelike preview of what the telescope will see.

Preparing for Euclid's Data Flood

Why Simulations Are Indispensable

Euclid's vast observational reach means that data arrives in massive volumes, at unprecedented speed. According to Julian Adamek of UZH's Department of Astrophysics—who collaborated with Stadel and Aurel Schneider—this makes automated data processing a necessity.

"These simulations are essential for preparing analysis," Adamek noted. "Without them, Euclid's datasets would be overwhelming."

This highlights the growing intersection between space research and AI-driven data processing, echoing similar discussions featured on Human Health Issues, where automation plays a crucial role in advancing medical science.

Challenging the Standard Cosmological Model

The Flagship 2 galaxy mock draws heavily on the standard cosmological model, currently regarded as the most reliable framework for explaining the universe's structure and growth. However, scientists remain cautious.

"There are already hints of weaknesses in the standard model," Stadel, explained. "Euclid could expose phenomena beyond today's theories."

Adamek agrees:

"It will be fascinating to see whether the model withstands Euclid's precision—or whether fresh flaws come to light."

This scientific openness mirrors challenges faced in climate science, where models are constantly updated as new realities emerge. Articles on Earth Day Harsh Reality explore similar themes, from climate predictions to unexpected global events.

The Dark Energy Enigma

One of Euclid's primary objectives is to probe dark energy, the mysterious force believed to be driving the accelerated expansions of the universe.

"The model treats dark energy as a constant," Stadel explained. But Euclid's ability to peer back 10 billion years may challenge this assumption.

"We can trace how expansion unfolded and test whether that constant truly held firm," Adamek added.

Although a full explanation may remain out of reach, Euclid promises to bring science one step closer to solving one of the greatest mysteries in physics.

Cosmic Vision in Unprecedented Resolution

Gravitational Lensing as a Tool

Euclid's mission is unique not only in its scale but also in its resolution. It is designed to detect faint distortions in galaxies caused by gravitational lensing—a phenomenon where massive objects bend light, revealing the hidden presence of dark matter.

This makes Euclid the most ambitious survey of the universe ever attempted, combining wide coverage with unmatched precision.

Building a 3D Map of the Universe

In addition to lensing, Euclid's spectroscopic data will allow researchers to pinpoint galaxy distances with extraordinary accuracy, enabling the construction of a 3D map spanning 10 billion light-years.

These capabilities mirror advancements in data visualization and environmental modeling, areas often explored in-depth at FSNews365.

Rare Celestial Phenomena in Euclid's Sight

With such vast observational coverage, Euclid is expected to capture rare cosmic events.

"Some phenomena are exceptionally uncommon," Adamek explained. "But with Euclid's reach, the likelihood of detecting the unexpected is remarkably high."

Already, the telescope has delivered groundbreaking insights. In March 2025, ESA released Euclid's first observational dataset, called the Quick Data Release. Although it represented just a fraction of the mission's total findings, it unveiled striking details of galaxy clusters and the cosmic web.

A larger dataset is planned for release in spring 2026, with early analyses already published in Astronomy & Astrophysics.

Global Impact of Euclid's Discoveries

The Euclid mission is not just about space; it is about how we understand our place in the cosmos. By challenging existing models, refining our grasp of dark energy and expanding humanity's vision across 10 billion years, Euclid bridges the gap between science, philosophy and even global policy.

Euclid's revelations may force humanity to reconsider the very foundations of physical reality.

Conclusion: A Telescope That Redefines Human Perspective

The Euclid project represents a monumental achievement in space exploration. By combining supercomputer simulations, advanced algorithms and cutting-edge instrumentation, it has created a roadmap to unlock the mysteries of dark matter, dark energy and cosmic evolution.

With each release of new data, Euclid promises to redefine our understanding of the universe—reminding us that science is not about solving mysteries but about embracing the unknown.

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