Final answer:
The best current estimate of the Universe's geometry is that it is flat, consisting of approximately 5% ordinary matter, 27% dark matter, and 68% dark energy. The Universe is also far larger than we can observe and appears homogeneous and isotropic, with its fate being open to further study.
Step-by-step explanation:
Our present best estimate of the geometry of the Universe is that it is flat. A recent analysis of data from the Planck satellite mission adds to a consensus among cosmologists. Major components of the Universe include ordinary matter, dark matter, and dark energy. Current estimates suggest the Universe comprises approximately 5% ordinary matter, 27% dark matter, and 68% dark energy. These components contribute to the overall density of the Universe, which is crucial for understanding its shape and fate. Measurements imply the Universe is at least 100 times larger than what we can observe. Our observations confirm that the Universe is homogeneous and isotropic on a large scale, meaning physics laws act uniformly throughout. Nevertheless, we cannot directly observe most parts of the Universe due to the limits of light travel. The fate of the Universe remains an open question, heavily influenced by its flat geometry and the balance between matter and energy. The most accepted models of cosmic structure formation rely on dark matter acting as 'seeds' for the growth of the structure over time.