From distant sources of light, like galaxies and quasars, intervening gas clouds can be probed. Anything present, including molecules, atoms, or even ions, can be probed for absorption features. If the right combination of elements and their isotopes are present, a value for the fine-structure constant at that location can be extracted. (SPECTRUM: NASA/CXC/UNIV. OF CALIFORNIA IRVINE/T. FANG. ILLUSTRATION: CXC/M. WEISS)

Could Our Fundamental Constants Not Be Constant, After All?

Signals from across the Universe point towards a fascinating possibility.

Whenever we examine the Universe in a scientific manner, there are a few assumptions that we take for granted as we go about our investigations. We assume that the measurements that register on our devices correspond to physical properties of the system we’re observing. We assume that the fundamental properties, laws, and constants associated with the material Universe don’t spontaneously change from moment-to-moment. And we also assume, for many compelling reasons, that although the environment may vary from location-to-location, the rules that govern the Universe always remain the same.

But every assumption, no matter how well-grounded it may be or how justified we believe we are in making it, has to be subject to challenge and scrutiny. Assuming that atoms behave the same everywhere — at all times and in all places — is reasonable, but unless the Universe supports that assumption with convincing, high-precision evidence, we’re compelled to question any and all assumptions. If the fundamental constants are identical at all times and places, the Universe should show us that atoms behave the same everywhere we look. But do they? Depending on how you ask the question, you might not like the answer…