Gravitational Lensing: Extent & Effects on Universe

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on gravitational lensing and its implications for our understanding of the universe. Participants explore how every star, black hole, and galaxy contributes to lensing light, potentially altering our perception of cosmic structures. The conversation highlights the possibility that the observable universe's edge may be influenced by gravitational effects, particularly from massive objects like black holes. Ultimately, the consensus is that the vast emptiness between celestial bodies plays a crucial role in light's journey through space.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational lensing principles
  • Familiarity with the concept of the observable universe
  • Knowledge of black hole physics
  • Basic astrophysics terminology
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of gravitational lensing on astronomical observations
  • Study the role of black holes in shaping cosmic structures
  • Explore the concept of the observable universe versus the entire universe
  • Learn about the propagation of light in a vacuum and its interactions with mass
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysicists, and students interested in cosmology and the effects of gravitational forces on light and the structure of the universe.

Lexus Dominus
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What is the extent of gravitational lensing? i mean, if every single star, black hole, galaxy ect is lensing light in all directions it would surely make the true nature/structure of the universe far different than is observable, right? we could be seeing the same object in two completely different places at different wavelengths at two completely different times in its history.. or would light from an object it just become too dim too quickly to make any significant difference?

could the 'edge of the universe' only be the "edge of the observeable universe" because of a critical mass between it and a point of reference i.e that mass is acting as a black hole.

I wish i knew more about this kind of stuff its amazing, its just not my field of study :(
 
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I think the answer is just that there is simply so much empty space in between objects. When a photon leaves a distant star it will travel for billions of years and never come close to anything of significant mass until it reaches Earth.
 

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