|
|
 |
 
 Data
derived from a balloon-borne probe of the early Universe provides strong
evidence that the Universe
is flat and not open. The data is also consistent with the idea
that the theorized cosmological constant, a form of countergravitational
"dark energy" thought to fill the universe, is helping drive the
never-ending expansion of the Universe. Also, a sidebar
explains how scientists are able to explore the enigma of the Universe's
beginning and its ongoing evolution using "the message from the
beginning of time."
 Determining
the origin of ancient artifacts helps define the relationships and
influences between old-world peoples. For instance, correlating pottery
fragments found in excavations with where the pottery was made illuminates
the trade and cultural contacts among ancient settlements. Unfortunately,
in culturally complex areas where various settlements were making and
trading similar wares, the standard methods of archaeology -- excavating
and comparing decorative styles and materials -- are not always
sufficient. This is where new
archaeological tools borrowed from the world of nuclear physics come
in.
|
|
|
