redshift
/ˈred.ʃɪft/
Definition
A phenomenon where light from an object moving away from the observer is stretched to longer, redder wavelengths, used by astronomers as a measure of distance and the expansion of the universe.
Etymology
The term is a compound of 'red' and 'shift,' originating in the early 20th century to describe the observable displacement of spectral lines toward the red end of the electromagnetic spectrum. It draws on the physics of the Doppler effect, where waves are elongated as a source recedes from the observer.
In the news
In this article, the term is used to describe a method for gauging the distance of cosmic objects, helping scientists understand the history and expansion of the universe. It highlights how astronomers analyze light to map the positions of comets and asteroids relative to our own galaxy.
The Rubin Observatory's 10-year movie of the universe is about to 'blow our minds,' chief scientist says
Read the full article ↗Live Science