Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), Arts and Sciences Faculty, Department of Physics hosted a renowned figure from the cosmology world. Prof. Dr. Bobomurat Ahmedov, representing both the Ulugh Beg Astronomical Institute of the Uzbekistan Academy of Sciences and the Advanced Research Institute of New Uzbekistan University, gave an impactful presentation at EMU’s Department of Physics on “The Modern Understanding of the Universe’s Structure and Evolution”.
Only 4% of the Universe is “Visible” Matter
Prof. Dr. Ahmedov began his lecture by discussing the theory that the universe originated 13.7 billion years ago with the Big Bang. Emphasizing that from that point onward, the universe has been expanding and cooling, Prof. Dr. Ahmedov also presented remarkable findings on the universe’s composition according to the widely accepted $Lambda$CDM (Lambda-CDM) model.
Prof. Dr. Ahmedov pointed out that, contrary to what many assume, the vast majority of the universe is composed of elements we cannot observe. He stated that about 73% of the universe’s total mass and energy is made up of dark energy, the force behind its accelerating expansion. He added that roughly 23% consists of dark matter, which has strong indirect evidence supporting its existence despite not yet being directly detected. Meanwhile, ordinary ‘baryonic’ matter—the material forming stars, planets, and humans—makes up only about 4% of the universe, underscoring how little of the cosmos is made of familiar matter.
“Foam-Like” Structure of the Dark Matter
Discussing the formation of the universe’s present structure, Prof. Dr. Ahmedov explained that dark matter serves as the backbone of the cosmos, saying; “Under gravitational influence, dark matter gradually accumulated and formed a ‘foam-like’ pattern made up of filaments and vast empty regions. Enormous hydrogen and helium clouds were pulled into these dense areas, eventually giving birth to the first galaxies, stars, and everything we see in the universe today”.
James Webb Telescope: A Revolution in Cosmology
Prof. Dr. Ahmedov devoted a major portion of his lecture to the latest discoveries made by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and their transformative impact on cosmology. He stressed that the telescope’s pioneering observations are reshaping our understanding of the universe’s core mechanisms and prompting a re-evaluation of current theories. He then outlined JWST’s primary contributions as follows:
“Discovery of Ancient Galaxies”
“By observing galaxies from the universe’s earliest, ‘baby’ stages, JWST has provided new insights that refine our knowledge of how galaxies form and evolve.”
“Exoplanet Atmospheres”
“The telescope studies the atmospheres of exoplanets—planets beyond our Solar System—providing crucial data on their compositions and potential signs of habitability.”
“Stellar Nurseries”
“By peering through cosmic dust clouds, the telescope has provided unprecedented views of how stars are born and die.” Prof. Dr. Ahmedov added that JWST has also uncovered unexpected phenomena, such as the mysterious structures of dark matter, challenging scientists to reconsider current models. He concluded his talk by saying, “As the James Webb Telescope continues to probe the depths of space, we anticipate many more groundbreaking discoveries that will deepen our understanding of the universe’s workings.” At the end of the event, Prof. Dr. İzzet Sakallı, Head of EMU Department of Physics, presented Prof. Dr. Ahmedov with a special gift representing the university.
A Visit to EMU Rector’s Office
Following the event, Prof. Dr. Ahmedov visited EMU Vice Rector for Academic Affairs Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe, expressing his contentment on being at the university. He stated, “I was deeply impressed by the curiosity and dedication to science shown by EMU students and faculty. Being in an environment where scientific inquiry is so strong was a great pleasure for me.”
Prof. Dr. Karatepe shared his happiness in hosting a globally recognized scientist at EMU, noting, “Prof. Dr. Ahmedov’s extensive knowledge and the striking insights he shared about the universe have been a tremendous source of inspiration for our students and faculty. As EMU, we will continue to bring the universal power of science to our campus.”
The visit was also attended by Prof. Dr. İzzet Sakallı, Head of EMU Department of Physics, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ali Övgün, a faculty member in the same department. At the conclusion of the visit, Prof. Dr. Karatepe presented Prof. Dr. Ahmedov with a gift unique to Cyprus.