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Is the Multiverse Theory Science Fiction or Science Fact?

Parallel universes could exist, whether cosmologists can prove it or not.

By Eric Betz
Dec 18, 2020 4:00 PM
Multiverse artist's concept
A multiverse consists of many separate and distinct universes, as depicted in this artist's concept. (Credit: Jaswe/Shutterstock)

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Do we live in a multiverse? Daydreamers and science-fiction authors have pondered parallel universes for as long as scientists have described our own. 

Our universe contains everything we know — from planets, stars, and galaxies to space and time itself. And it’s truly staggering in size, spanning some 93 billion light-years across, according to astronomers’ estimates. That’s more than our species could ever hope to explore. 

But what if our universe isn't the only one? What if alternate universes are humming along undetected, right "next" to ours?

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