Measurements of the CMB suggest the universe is nearly flat. Flatness results from rapid inflation, stretching space to smooth curvature. Tiny deviations in the CMB confirm slight variations. Universe’s shape influences expansion, dark energy behavior, and fate. Detecting curvature informs models of cosmic evolution. Understanding geometry also helps simulate structure formation in the universe.
It matters because the universe’s curvature determines long-term evolution scenarios.
It also refines theoretical models of cosmology and gravity.
The Big Bang imprinted a nearly flat geometry on spacetime.
Planck Collaboration [esa.int]