Dark Matter
Articles tagged with Dark Matter
Molecules shed light on dark matter
Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz have made new constraints on dark matter particles using precision measurements of barium monofluoride molecules. The study found bounds on hypothetical Z' bosons that mediate electron-nucleus interactions, potentially shedding light on dark matter.
The DAMPE satellite sheds light on the origin of cosmic rays
The DAMPE satellite has identified a universal feature in the energy spectra of primary cosmic ray nuclei, revealing that spectral softening occurs around a rigidity of about 15 TV. This observation strongly supports models explaining the acceleration and transport of cosmic rays based on their rigidity.
Radiation monitoring at synchrotron sheds light on exotic particle physics
A Tokyo Metropolitan University scientist has proposed using standard synchrotron facilities to study dark photons, a key step in the hunt for dark matter. The method uses radiation safety monitoring data to estimate limits on dark photon properties.
Neutrinos caught on camera
A new detector technology has been developed to track elementary particles in large volumes of unsegmented scintillator material. The system uses a plenoptic camera and single-photon avalanche diode array sensors to achieve high-resolution 3D tracking, even in photon-starved conditions.
A student-led experiment sets new limits in the search for axions
A team of undergraduate students built a cavity detector to search for axions and set new experimental limits on their properties. The result was achieved with relatively limited resources, showcasing the potential for small-scale experiments in precision cosmology.
Dark matter could explain earliest supermassive black holes
A study led by University of California, Riverside graduate student Yash Aggarwal suggests that dark matter decays could have seeded the direct collapse of galaxies into giant black holes. The research found that a window of dark matter masses between 24 and 27 electronvolts could produce conditions for black hole formation.
Gravity follows Newton and Einstein’s rules, even at cosmic scales
Researchers tracked galaxy clusters to test gravity's strength, finding it weakens with distance as predicted by Newton and Einstein. The study confirms the existence of invisible dark matter, closing the door on alternative theories like Modified Newtonian Dynamics.
Self-interacting dark matter may solve three cosmic puzzles
A study suggests that self-interacting dark matter (SIDM) can explain unusual gravitational effects observed in various astrophysical environments. Dense clumps of SIDM can account for high-density structures in the universe, providing a promising candidate for explaining small-scale cosmic structure.
What if dark matter came in two states?
Researchers suggest that dark matter may consist of multiple particles, whose behavior varies depending on the cosmic environment. This could explain why a signal observed at the center of our galaxy is not seen in dwarf galaxies.
Gravitational waves as possible candidates for the origin of dark matter
Gravitational waves may have contributed to dark matter formation through stochastic gravitational waves during the early universe's formation. This new mechanism could lead to mass-free or nearly mass-free fermions that would acquire mass and form dark matter particles.
A galaxy next door is transforming, and astronomers can see it happening
The Small Magellanic Cloud's stars do not orbit around its center due to a direct collision with the Large Magellanic Cloud. The collision disrupted the SMC's internal structure and destroyed its gas rotation, making it a unique case to study galaxy evolution.
Tova Holmes and Larry Lee selected as Fermilab Distinguished Researchers
Tova Holmes and Larry Lee will work on the CMS upgrade and search for new particles at Fermilab, while also promoting the laboratory's Distinguished Researcher program. They aim to strengthen connections between the university and the national lab, bringing students and postdocs to the lab for hands-on learning opportunities.
Two component self-interacting dark matter model explains both dwarf galaxy cores and strong gravitational lensing puzzles
A new study proposes a two-component self-interacting dark matter model that naturally reproduces observational results for dwarf galaxies and strong gravitational lensing. The model predicts mass segregation, where heavier particles sink towards galaxy centers and lighter particles diffuse outward.
Chinese scientists develop distributed intercity quantum sensor network to expand dark matter research
Researchers created a distributed nuclear-spin-based quantum sensor network to experimentally exceed astrophysical constraints on dark matter associated with axion topological defects. The study set the most stringent constraints on axion-nucleon coupling across an axion mass range, opening up new possibilities for probing unexplored p...
'Dark matter, not a black hole, could power Milky Way's heart'
Researchers propose an alternative explanation for the galactic centre: an enormous clump of mysterious dark matter exerting gravitational influence. The model also explains the galaxy's large-scale rotation and predicts a unique cosmic structure.
Did we just see a black hole explode? Physicists at UMass Amherst think so—and it could explain (almost) everything
A team of physicists at UMass Amherst has proposed a new model for black holes, the 'dark charge' model, which explains high-energy neutrinos and solves cosmic mysteries. The model suggests that quasi-extremal primordial black holes, with a 'dark charge,' could be the missing link in explaining the universe's fundamental nature.
Astronomers reveal new details about dark matter’s influence on Universe
Researchers created the highest resolution map of dark matter, showing its interaction with normal matter through gravity. The new data from NASA's James Webb Space Telescope confirms previous research and provides new details about dark matter's influence on the Universe.
Dark matter may have begun much hotter than scientists thought
Researchers challenge a decades-old dark matter theory, suggesting it could have been 'incredibly hot' when first born. The study opens up new possibilities for dark matter and its interactions with other matter, providing clues about the origins of our Universe.
We have no idea what most of the universe is made of, but scientists are closer than ever to finding out
Researchers at Texas A&M University are building highly sensitive detectors to explore dark matter and energy. The team's work builds on previous breakthroughs in detecting low-mass particles, and they aim to find ways to amplify signals that were previously buried in noise.
Astronomers spot one of the largest spinning structures ever found in the Universe
Researchers have identified a massive cosmic filament containing 280 galaxies, many of which are spinning in the same direction as the filament itself. The discovery provides rare insight into how galaxies gain their spin and could inform future efforts to model intrinsic alignments of galaxies.
After nearly 100 years, scientists may have detected dark matter
Researchers believe they have finally detected gamma rays predicted by the annihilation of theoretical dark matter particles. The observed energy spectrum matches the emission predicted from weakly interacting massive particles, with a mass approximately 500 times that of a proton.
Quantum sensors in space: Unveiling invisible universe
The SQUIRE project deploys quantum spin sensors on the China Space Station to search for pseudomagnetic fields induced by exotic interactions. These interactions can induce energy shifts in atomic energy levels, which can be detected as pseudomagnetic fields by quantum spin sensors.
Dark matter does not defy gravity
A UNIGE-led team found that dark matter behaves similarly to ordinary matter on a cosmological scale, following Euler's equations. However, the possibility of an unknown interaction or fifth force remains open.
A ‘dead’ 1800s idea rises again... with clues to the mystery of the universe’s missing antimatter
Japanese physicists have shown that knots can arise in a realistic particle physics framework, potentially explaining the origin of the universe's matter surplus. By combining two long-studied extensions of the Standard Model, the team found a stable knot configuration that could have formed and dominated in the early universe.
Quantum networks bring new precision to dark matter searches
Researchers at Tohoku University propose a way to detect dark matter using highly sensitive quantum devices connected in network structures. This approach outperforms traditional methods and has potential applications beyond dark matter searches.
WVU engineers recalibrate radio telescopes to illuminate dark energy
Researchers at WVU are enhancing the calibration of radio telescopes to measure dark energy by analyzing the '21-centimeter signal' from neutral hydrogen atoms. This technique aims to improve the ability of radio telescopes to detect large-scale structures in the universe, such as galaxy clusters and voids.
Mysterious glow in Milky Way could be evidence of dark matter
A mysterious glow in the Milky Way could be a clue to dark matter's existence. Researchers used supercomputers to simulate dark matter locations and found matches with actual gamma ray maps.
Astronomers find mystery dark object in distant universe
A team of astronomers has discovered a mysterious dark object in the distant universe with a mass about 1 million times that of our Sun. The discovery is significant as it could confirm or refute theories about the nature of dark matter.
Probing dark matter with lunar radio telescopes
Researchers at University of Tsukuba predicted the intensity of 21-cm radio signal in different dark matter models using numerical simulations. The results imply hydrogen gas produced a characteristic signal that could reveal dark matter mass and velocity if detected globally.
Gravitino, a new candidate for Dark Matter
Gravitinos, charged particles with spin 3/2, are suggested as a new alternative to existing Dark Matter candidates like axions and WIMPs. The JUNO detector, currently under construction, is well-suited for detecting gravitinos due to its large volume.
Could a primordial black hole’s last burst explain a mysteriously energetic neutrino?
Recent detection of a record-setting neutrino may be the first evidence of Hawking radiation from a primordial black hole. If confirmed, it would indicate that PBHs make up most of dark matter in the universe.
Breakthrough in the hunt for light dark matter: QROCODILE project reveals world-leading constraints
The QROCODILE project has achieved record sensitivity in detecting light dark matter particles using superconducting detectors cooled to near absolute zero. The team set new world-leading limits on how dark matter interacts with ordinary matter, opening a door to future breakthroughs.
Simulations solve centuries-old cosmic mystery – and discover new class of ancient star systems
Astronomers have finally solved the mystery of globular clusters using detailed simulations, uncovering a new class of object that could be in our own galaxy. The study found multiple pathways for their creation and a new class of star system, “globular cluster-like dwarfs”, which sits between globular clusters and dwarf galaxies.
An exploding black hole could reveal the foundations of the universe
A team of physicists at UMass Amherst propose that we may soon observe an exploding primordial black hole, which could reveal the foundations of the universe and provide a definitive catalog of subatomic particles. This explosion would give us insight into the formation of black holes and the universe's primordial conditions shortly af...
UZH device searches for light dark matter
Scientists have developed a new device to probe the existence of dark matter particles across a wide mass range below one mega electron volt. The QROCODILE experiment uses an improved superconducting nanowire single-photon detector to detect changes in direction, which can help filter out non-dark-matter events.
New dark matter detectors look for ‘wimpier’ particles
Researchers have developed a new technology to detect light dark matter particles, which could generate direct evidence of dark matter or rule out broad classes of theories. The detector is designed to capture tiny energy signals from dark matter collisions with atoms, using silicon skipper CCDs to detect single electrons.
Using exoplanets to study dark matter
Researchers propose that Jupiter-sized exoplanets may accumulate and collapse into detectable black holes due to dark matter. This process could potentially generate multiple black holes in a single exoplanet's lifetime, making exoplanet surveys a promising method for hunting superheavy dark matter particles.
Intergalactic experiment: Researchers hunt for mysterious dark matter particle with clever new trick
Physicists from the University of Copenhagen have discovered a step-like signature that resembles the signature of an elusive axion particle using galaxy clusters. This method has greatly increased what we know about axions, allowing researchers to narrow down the space where it can be found.
NASA installs key ‘sunblock’ shield on Roman Space Telescope
The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will feature a 'sunblock' shield made of lightweight yet stiff panels designed to limit heat transfer. The observatory's instruments will benefit from this design, which can detect faint signals from space.
Study proposes a new window for dark matter research
Researchers at the University of São Paulo propose an inelastic DM model that interacts with ordinary matter through a vector mediator. This interaction could open a new window for dark matter research, providing a more precise understanding of its properties and behavior.
The dark side of time
Researchers propose a novel method for detecting dark matter using thorium-229 nucleus properties, with potential to detect forces 10 trillion times weaker than gravity. The new approach aims to identify minute deviations in the absorption spectrum of thorium-229 to reveal dark matter's influence.
Dark Dwarfs lurking at the center of our Galaxy might hint at the nature of dark matter
Researchers propose 'dark dwarfs' could be key to understanding dark matter, with lithium-7 serving as a unique marker. A discovery of a dark dwarf would provide compelling evidence for WIMPs as a possible dark matter component.
Can the Large Hadron Collider snap string theory?
Researchers from Penn University propose a five-member particle package, known as the 5-plet, that string theory cannot accommodate. This particle family is absent in any known string-based calculation, raising concerns about the framework's validity.
Rice researchers search for ultralight dark matter using a magnetically levitated particle
Researchers at Rice University have conducted the first direct search for ultralight dark matter using a magnetically levitated particle. Despite high sensitivity, they did not find evidence of the anticipated signal, ruling out specific interactions between dark matter and ordinary matter.
Tova Holmes wins Simons Foundation support for muon collider groundwork
Researchers aim to harness muon beams for higher collision energy, enabling breakthroughs in particle physics. The goal is to understand dark matter and the Higgs boson's role in the universe's birth and potential collapse.
Dark matter formed when fast particles slowed down and got heavy, new theory says
Researchers at Dartmouth College propose a new theory on the origin of dark matter, suggesting it could have formed from high-energy massless particles that rapidly condensed into cold, heavy particles. The theory can be tested using existing observational data, including the Cosmic Microwave Background radiation.
NASA's Roman mission shares detailed plans to scour skies
Roman's surveys will investigate dark energy and dark matter governing cosmic evolution, and study the demographics of worlds beyond our solar system. The missions include High-Latitude Wide-Area Survey, High-Latitude Time-Domain Survey, and Galactic Bulge Time-Domain Survey.
‘Cosmic radio’ could find dark matter in 15 years
Researchers at King's College London and Harvard University develop a detector that can identify axions, leading potential candidates for dark matter. The Axion Quasiparticle (AQ) technology has the potential to discover dark matter in five years with further development.
Cosmic twist: New study suggests the universe could be spinning
Researchers propose universe may rotate with one rotation every 500 billion years, resolving Hubble tension paradox and explaining discrepancies in astronomical measurements. The theory is compatible with current models and doesn't break any known laws of physics.
Do “completely dark” dark matter halos exist?
Researchers have calculated that star formation can occur in halos down to 10 million solar masses through molecular hydrogen cooling. This discovery has significant implications for our understanding of galaxy formation and the nature of dark matter.
Teresa Marrodán Undagoitia appointed as professor by special appointment at the Faculty of Science of the University of Amsterdam
Prof. Marrodán Undagoitia joins the Dark Matter group at UvA with expertise in astroparticle physics, XENON experiments, and light sensor development. Her appointment strengthens the group's capabilities for ultra-sensitive detectors.
Euclid opens data treasure trove, offers glimpse of deep fields
The Euclid data release unlocks a treasure trove of information for scientists to study the universe's cosmic history and invisible forces. With its exceptional field of view, Euclid captures an area 240 times larger than the Hubble Telescope, delivering outstanding image quality in both visible and infrared light spectrum.
Mysterious phenomenon at center of galaxy could reveal new kind of dark matter
A study published in Physical Review Letters suggests that a mysterious phenomenon at the center of our galaxy may be caused by a lighter form of dark matter. The research team detected unusual energy signatures radiating from this region, which they believe could be produced by the annihilation of tiny dark matter particles.
Gravity from entropy: A radical new approach to unifying quantum mechanics and general relativity
A groundbreaking new framework unifies gravity from quantum relative entropy, bridging the gap between quantum mechanics and Einstein's general relativity. The theory predicts a small, positive cosmological constant aligning with experimental observations.
New limits found for dark matter properties from latest search
Researchers have set new limits on the lifetime of dark matter particles using a combination of models and state-of-the-art observations. The findings highlight the utility of their technology, setting an upper bound of ten to a hundred million times the age of the universe for the frequency of dark matter decay events.
New X-ray experiment could solve major physics puzzles
Scientists use European X-ray Free Electron Laser to detect axions, which could provide evidence for new physics beyond Standard Model. The experiment sets stage for future searches in milli- to kilo-electron volt mass range.
Euclid discovers a stunning Einstein ring
The Euclid space telescope has discovered a stunning Einstein ring in the galaxy NGC 6505, showcasing rare gravitational lensing effects. This remarkable finding demonstrates the power of Euclid's high-resolution instruments and provides new insights into the expansion of the Universe.
New technique to detect dark matter using atomic clocks and lasers
A team of international researchers has developed an innovative approach to detect dark matter by analysing data from ultra-stable lasers connected by fibre optic cables and atomic clocks aboard GPS satellites. They identified subtle effects of oscillating dark matter fields, which were invisible in previous searches.
Researchers find dark matter dominating in early universe galaxies
A research team has found that dark matter makes up about 60% of the mass of two galaxies at a redshift of 6, shedding light on its role in galaxy evolution. This discovery offers new insights into the intricate relationship between dark matter and supermassive black holes.