Quasar spectrum (IMAGE) Ohio University Caption DESI collects spectra, the different frequencies of light that objects in space emit. That light tells researchers how far away the object is, meaning they can create a 3D map of the universe. This spectrum is from an incredibly distant quasar more than 12 billion light-years from Earth. The universe’s expansion has stretched the light’s wavelength and shifted it into the infrared. Credit Eleanor Downing/DESI collaboration Usage Restrictions N/A License Original content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.