Professor Myungwon Jeon (photo=Kyung Hee University)

Kyung Hee University astrophysicist seeks to reconcile early-universe observations with standard cosmology through groundbreaking theoretical research

Professor Myungwon Jeon from the Department of Space Exploration at Kyung Hee University has been awarded a prestigious research grant from the Samsung Science & Technology Foundation to lead a five-year project aimed at resolving a major theoretical crisis in modern cosmology. The foundation supports high-risk, high-impact research across science and engineering to foster global scientific advancement and contribute to humanity.

The research focuses on addressing discrepancies between recent observations by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and the long-standing Lambda Cold Dark Matter (ΛCDM) model—the prevailing theory that describes the origin and evolution of the universe.

■ Early Galaxies Challenge Standard Cosmology

Launched in December 2021, the James Webb Space Telescope was designed to succeed the Hubble Space Telescope and extend humanity’s view of the universe into earlier cosmic epochs. Since its first data release in July 2022, JWST has identified over 1,000 candidate galaxies from the early universe, offering unprecedented insights into the formation of the first galaxies.

However, these findings have raised critical questions. Many of the observed early galaxies are more massive and evolved than predicted, suggesting that galaxy formation may have occurred much more rapidly than allowed by current models. “It was shocking to consider that decades of results from Hubble—and our understanding of the cosmos—might be incomplete or even incorrect,” said Professor Jeon.

(photo=Kyung Hee University)

■ A Four-Pronged Theoretical Approach

Professor Jeon’s team will take a multi-faceted approach to address the tension between observational data and theoretical models. Their four main research strategies include:
Revising physical models of early galaxies to account for unexpectedly active star formation.
Proposing new physical laws that may have applied uniquely in the early universe.

Modifying the ΛCDM model to explore the influence of previously unaccounted-for physical mechanisms on cosmic structure formation.

Testing alternative cosmological frameworks that may better align with JWST data.

“The goal is to bridge the gap between theory and observation, and ultimately present a new perspective on the evolution of the universe,” said Jeon.

■ Redefining Humanity’s Understanding of the Universe

Professor Jeon emphasizes the transformative nature of cosmology, which shapes how humanity understands its place in the universe. “Just a century ago, people believed there was only one galaxy. Our understanding has since expanded tremendously. If our current cosmological model is wrong, our very view of the universe—and our place within it—may need to change,” he said.

Beyond the scientific aims, Professor Jeon expressed excitement about mentoring graduate students throughout the project. “One of the greatest joys of research is working alongside young scientists. This project will provide them with invaluable opportunities. Personally, I hope to be recognized by my peers as a thoughtful and collaborative researcher.”

The project, funded from November 2024 to October 2029, is expected to significantly impact the field of theoretical astrophysics and cosmology, offering a new framework to interpret the early universe and potentially reshape the foundations of modern cosmology.