Evolution of the universe simulated by scientists

Scientists have unveiled what has been described as the most complete computer model yet of the evolution of the universe.

This new virtual cosmos created by U.S., German and English researchers includes details never before achieved in a simulation that have previously failed because of numerical inaccuracies and incomplete physical models, the scientists said. 

Those behind the project hope it will serve as a way to predict and interpret observations seen in the cosmos and allow scientists to test current theories of how the universe will evolve and how galaxies can grow. 

Called Illustris, the numerical-based model covers the 13 billion-year evolution of the universe beginning just 12 million years after the Big Bang. And its developers said it accurately depicts the distribution and composition of various types of galaxies.

The scientists said the model "reproduces the observed distribution of galaxies in clusters and characteristics of hydrogen on large scales, and at the same time matches the ‘metal’ and hydrogen content of galaxies on small scales."

The model was developed by a team led by astrophysicist Mark Vogelsberger of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. It is described in Thursday's issue of the journal Nature.

Vogelsberger told the scientific journal that the model represented indirect evidence for the correctness of how we think the universe works. 

The Illustris creators said it represents "a significant step forward in modeling galaxy formation." They attribute their success to advanced computer power equivalent to 10,000 home computers doing calculations at the same time for half a year.

"Which means if you try to do this on an ordinary desktop computer, or state-of-the-art desktop computer, this would take something like 5,000 years to calculate," Vogelsberger said. 

"Until now, no single simulation was able to reproduce the universe on both large and small scales simultaneously," he said.  

Al Jazeera and The Associated Press