Cosmological model
The Multiverse
Cosmology & UniverseSpeculative Hypothesis
Definition
The hypothesis that our observable Universe is one of many, or of infinitely many, universes.
Scientific overview
Several ideas — eternal inflation, the string-theory landscape, and interpretations of quantum mechanics — suggest our Universe may be one region among a vast ensemble with different properties. It is sometimes invoked to explain why physical constants appear fine-tuned for structure.
Open questions
- Is the multiverse testable, even in principle?
- Does eternal inflation necessarily produce one?
Related topics
Knowledge connections
- Related toCosmic Inflation
Sources & references
The primary and reference sources this topic draws on.
- NASANational Aeronautics and Space Administration
Mission data, planetary science, space telescopes, and public-domain imagery.
Most NASA-produced imagery is in the public domain; individual items are checked for usage terms before publication.