Promising Signs of Life Detected on Distant Planet K2-18b

A groundbreaking study published in the journal Nature explores the unsettling concept of the universe existing in a "false vacuum," suggesting it may be poised for a sudden collapse into a more stable state. Researchers from the University of Leeds, led by professor Zlatko Papic, simulated the processes behind this phenomenon, revealing that a complete structural change in the universe could occur, hypothetically resulting in a cataclysmic event.
The theory posits that the cosmos currently resides in a temporary energy state that will eventually decay, akin to a rollercoaster with multiple valleys. Co-author Jean-Yves Desaules from the Institute of Science and Technology Austria noted that the universe might be stuck in a metastable condition, waiting to transition to a "true vacuum."
To investigate this, the team utilized a quantum annealer to examine bubble formations that could trigger vacuum decay. This study aims to deepen our understanding of quantum mechanics and may even assist in enhancing the stability of current quantum computing systems, as reported by the researchers.