CHIME has made a standalone detection of faint radio emission from distant neutral hydrogen using its own observations, without combining them with galaxy-survey data. The milestone gives researchers another tool for investigating the universe’s expansion and dark energy; it does not explain dark energy or deliver a definitive new expansion-rate measurement.
What did CHIME detect?
Researchers detected the faint radio signal of neutral hydrogen from a period when the universe was about five billion years old. The result, announced by the University of British Columbia on September 28, 2026, used data from 94 observing nights in 2019. The team says it spent more than a year testing whether the signal could be a false detection.
Hydrogen is the universe’s most common element. Its radio emission can serve as a tracer of how matter is distributed across space. Co-author Shabbir Shaikh said the data indicate that roughly 2% of the hydrogen was in neutral atomic form at the observed time, broadly consistent with other measurements. That figure describes hydrogen’s state; it is not a percentage of dark energy and is not a measurement of the universe’s expansion rate. University of British Columbia announcement, September 28, 2026.
How does CHIME study dark energy?
CHIME maps neutral hydrogen across cosmic time. By measuring where that hydrogen is distributed, astronomers can trace the large-scale structure of matter and use it to investigate how the universe expanded. That makes hydrogen mapping relevant to dark energy, the name for the still-unresolved phenomenon associated with the universe’s accelerating expansion.
#1 Best Overall
- Astronomy Accessory: This miniature telescope adds a realistic telescope detail to dollhouse scenes helping children explore astronomy themes during play while also working as a tiny telescope ornament for desktop decor
- 1:25 scale size measuring 2.28 x 1.61 x 1.02 inches this 125 scale telescope is sized for dollhouse setups miniature displays and mini house telescope collections without taking up much space
- Miniature Design: The dollhouse telescope features a compact shape with careful detailing that mirrors a small telescope used in a miniature home model adding a realistic look to room scenes and play setups
- Childsafe Material: Made from safe materials this mini telescope is designed for childrens play and everyday handling giving parents added peace of mind when used as one of the miniature dollhouse accessories
- Desktop Decor: Use this doll house telescope as a small decorative piece for desks shelves or display cabinets where its compact form can add a warm accent to home decor and miniature collections
The instrument is a drift-scan radio telescope at the Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory near Penticton, British Columbia. It observes at 400–800 MHz using four parallel cylindrical reflectors, each 100 metres by 20 metres. Its design targets hydrogen over a redshift range of 0.8 to 2.5. These instrument details are described in the CHIME Collaboration’s 2022 overview of CHIME.
Why is a standalone detection important?
Earlier CHIME analysis depended on cross-correlating its radio observations with galaxy-survey data. The new result detects the hydrogen signal from CHIME’s own observations, establishing a more independent route for this kind of measurement. It is a method milestone: the result enables further study, but does not by itself settle what dark energy is or establish a new value for the expansion rate.
Rank #2
- HOBBY MODEL KIT – Unassembled model packed in an envelope with easy to follow instructions. Ideal for ages 14 and up.
- NO GLUE OR SOLDER NEEDED – Parts can be easily clipped from the metal sheets. Tweezers are the recommended tool for bending and twisting the connection tabs.
- HUBBLE TELESCOPE – 1 Sheet Model with a moderate difficulty level. Assembled Size: 3.00 x 2.00 x 2.50 inches.
- FROM STEEL SHEETS TO 3D – Pop out the pieces and connect using tabs and holes. Includes illustrated instructions.
- HIGHLY DETAILED ETCHED MODEL – Display your 3D model once completed - collect and build them all.
The university announcement describes galaxy surveys as more costly and focused on star-forming regions, while saying intensity mapping could probe a broader volume and earlier epochs. That is a qualitative comparison in the announcement, not a numerical, like-for-like assessment of cost, sensitivity, or precision.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What the result does—and does not—establish
- It establishes: CHIME’s observations can be used for a standalone detection of distant neutral-hydrogen emission, after substantial checks against false alarms and other sources of contamination.
- It does not establish: a definitive new expansion-rate measurement, an explanation for dark energy, or the full precision of the hydrogen measurement. The announcement does not give the result’s statistical significance or complete uncertainty budget.
- It suggests: a potential additional way to map matter and probe cosmic expansion without relying on galaxy-survey cross-correlation for every analysis.
The university announcement says researchers have nearly seven years of CHIME observations available, while the reported measurement uses only a small fraction of that accumulated data. The team plans to analyze more observations, including data from earlier cosmic periods. Live Science’s September 30, 2026 report also describes the result as opening a new route to study expansion, rather than resolving the underlying mystery.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Rank #4
- Rokr Wooden Model Astronomical Bezel
Rank #3
- Realistic 1:12 Scale Set: This miniature astronomical telescope set includes a realistic telescope tube, an attachable nozzle, and a foldable tripod stand, standing approx. 12cm (4.72in) high when assembled. Crafted from PLA with white and black details, it requires no assembly and is ready to enhance your scenes.
- Versatile Decor & Collectible: An exquisite accessory for adult collectors & technology enthusiasts. Adds a unique scientific atmosphere to 1:12 scale dollhouse studies, stargazing-themed scenes, miniature museums, laboratories, or serves as a captivating desktop ornament.
- Dimensions：1.97 in (5 cm) L, 1.97 in (5 cm) W, 4.72 in (12 cm) H
- Quantity: A pieces per box. Materials: Resin
- The product is a miniature model and is not suitable for individuals under the age of 15.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
