Galaxies and dark matter form filaments and voids, shaped by initial density fluctuations after the Big Bang. Gravity pulls matter into these threadlike patterns. Simulations reveal the “cosmic web” is the backbone of structure formation. Observing filaments validates Big Bang and inflation predictions. Filaments direct galaxy flows and influence star formation. This intricate network is the universe’s scaffolding.
It matters because cosmic filaments explain galaxy distribution.
It also guides models of dark matter and cosmic evolution.
Galaxies form along threadlike filaments born from the Big Bang.
European Southern Observatory [eso.org]