Recent evidence shows that the universe is expanding at an accelerating rate.
Furthermore, the data strongly suggest that an unidentified form of energy is the cause of the accelerating expansion. Light from distant exploding stars carries telltale clues that can resolve this enigma. 2-meter reflecting telescope in a high orbit over Earth's poles, circling the globe every week or 14 days. To confirm these results, SNAP would discover many type Ia supernovae at redshifts greater than any yet found. Because of SNAP's ability to measure their light curves and spectra to high precision, any uncertainties concerning the brightness and redshift of very distant supernovae can be minimized.