A new study published in the journal Nature Astronomy has found that the patterns formed by spiral galaxies show the universe may have a defined structure. The study, led by researchers at the University of Oxford, analysed data from over 20,000 spiral galaxies and found that they exhibited a distinct pattern of 'shells' or 'rings'.

The researchers believe that this pattern may be due to the way that galaxies form and evolve. They suggest that spiral galaxies start as small, rotating clouds of gas and dust, which gradually collapse and form into a central bulge of stars. The gas and dust that is left over then forms into a series of concentric rings or shells, which gradually expand as the galaxy grows.

The researchers say that this pattern of shells may also be a result of the way that galaxies interact with each other. They suggest that when galaxies collide or merge, the shells can be disrupted or distorted, which can lead to the formation of new shells or rings.

The findings of this study suggest that the universe may have a more ordered and structured nature than previously thought. They also provide new insights into the way that galaxies form and evolve.

Key findings of the study:

- Spiral galaxies exhibit a distinct pattern of 'shells' or 'rings'.

- The pattern may be due to the way that galaxies form and evolve.

- The pattern may also be a result of the way that galaxies interact with each other.

- The findings suggest that the universe may have a more ordered and structured nature than previously thought.