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Because Quote by Martin Rees

“There are strong reasons for believing that space goes on beyond the limits of our observational horizon. There are strong reasons because if you look in opposite directions, conditions are the same to within one part in 100,000. So if we are part of some finite structure then, if the gradient is…” quote by Martin Rees
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“There are strong reasons for believing that space goes on beyond the limits of our observational horizon. There are strong reasons because if you look in opposite directions, conditions are the same to within one part in 100,000. So if we are part of some finite structure then, if the gradient is so shallow, it is likely to go on much further.”

Martin Rees

About This Quote

Source Speech: Public Lecture on Cosmology, 1998

The universe likely extends far beyond what we can observe, as symmetry and uniformity suggest a vast, possibly infinite, structure.

In simple terms: Space probably continues beyond what we can see.

Key Takeaway

Consider the universe as larger than our horizon.

Themes

cosmology infinity observation symmetry structure

Mood

curious thoughtful inquisitive

Type

scientific philosophical

When to use this quote

  • Astronomy research
  • educational outreach
  • science policy discussions
  • philosophical debates about existence

Key Concepts

Cosmological principle large‑scale homogeneity finite horizon

Questions to Reflect On

  • What evidence would challenge this view?
  • How does this affect our sense of significance?
A Different Perspective

Assumes uniformity holds at scales we cannot test.

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