Dark energy: mysterious cosmic force appears to be weakening, say scientists

Findings could open up possibility the universe will end in a reverse big bang or big crunch', say cosmologists

• Explainer: Is dark energy destined to dominate the universe?

Dark energy, the mysterious force powering the expansion of the universe, appears to be weakening, according to a survey that could overthrow" scientists' current understanding of the fate of the cosmos.

If confirmed, the results from the dark energy spectroscopic instrument (Desi) team at the Kitt Peak National Observatory in Arizona would have profound implications for theories about the evolution of the universe, opening up the possibility that its current expansion could eventually go into reverse in a big crunch".