The question of whether the universe as a whole spins is still a topic of scientific investigation and debate. The current understanding based on observations and theoretical models suggests that the universe does not have a preferred global axis of rotation.
On large scales, galaxies are observed to have rotation, and within galaxies, stars and planets also exhibit rotation. However, when it comes to the entire universe, determining its overall rotation is challenging due to the complexity and vastness of the cosmos.
One way scientists have attempted to explore the rotation of the universe is by examining the distribution of galaxies. If the universe as a whole had a significant rotation, it could manifest as a preferential alignment or pattern in the distribution of galaxies on large scales. Several studies have been conducted to investigate this possibility, but the results have been inconclusive, with no robust evidence supporting a universal rotation.
Another approach to studying the rotation of the universe involves examining the cosmic microwave background (CMB), the radiation leftover from the early universe. Researchers have looked for hints of rotational effects in the polarization patterns of the CMB, but so far, no definitive evidence has been found.
It's important to note that the concept of rotation becomes more ambiguous and complex when applied to the entire universe. The universe's expansion and the nature of spacetime play significant roles in its dynamics, making it difficult to define rotation in a traditional sense.
In summary, while galaxies, stars, and planets exhibit rotation, the evidence for the universe as a whole having a measurable global rotation is currently limited, and the topic remains an active area of research in cosmology.