Other Images

Warning! This graph will continue to change slightly as better and better data is collected This image is made with 3 year WMAP data. The final 9 year data produces a more accurate result.

WMAP Three year data reveals that its contents include an estimate of 4% atoms, the building blocks of stars and planets. Dark matter comprises 22% of the universe. This matter, different from atoms, does not emit or absorb light. It has only been detected indirectly by its gravity. 74% of the universe, is composed of "dark energy", that acts as a sort of an anti-gravity. This energy, distinct from dark matter, is responsible for the present-day acceleration of the universal expansion.

5 year data reveals a somewhat more exact answer.

Credit: NASA / WMAP Science Team

Available formats:
With Text
160 x 90 JPG (2 KB)
150 x 150 JPG (5 KB)
256 x 264 JPG (8 KB)
320 x 329 JPG(16 KB)
400 x 400 JPG (53 KB)
750 x 772 JPG (94 KB)
1620 x 1668 JPG (309 KB)

PDF (89 KB)

WMAP # 060916