A new study predicts the universe will end in a "Big Crunch" in approximately 33.3 billion years. Researchers, using data from various astronomical surveys, propose a model suggesting dark energy is dynamic, not a constant. This model involves an ultra-light particle and a negative cosmological constant, causing the universe to eventually contract after reaching maximum expansion in about 7 billion years. While the prediction has significant uncertainty and alternative scenarios exist, upcoming astronomical projects could test and potentially confirm or refute this theory.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.