CMB Polarization Map

NASA's Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe WMAP has produced a new, more detailed picture of the infant universe. Colors indicate "warmer" (red) and "cooler" (blue) spots. The white bars show the "polarization" direction of the oldest light. This new information helps to pinpoint when the first stars formed and provides new evidence for the inflationary scenario of the big bang.

Papers and high-resolution images available on the NASA Web site.

Associated Physics News Update

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