Euclid telescope sends back first images from ‘dark universe’ mission

Perseus cluster and Horsehead nebula captured in dazzling detail as part of effort to create cosmic 3D map

The Euclid space telescope has beamed back its first images in a mission that promises to lift a veil on the dark universe".

The 1bn (850m) European Space Agency (Esa) mission is focused on dark matter and dark energy, which together make up 95% of the universe but their natures are almost entirely mysterious. The first images show the Perseus galaxy cluster and Horsehead nebula in dazzling detail and capture approximately 100,000 galaxies in a single snapshot, showcasing the telescope's unmatched ability to make razor-sharp observations across a vast expanse of space.