The Quest to Solve the Mystery of Dark Matter

The scientific community has long been intrigued by the mystery of dark matter, which accounts for approximately 80% of the matter in the universe. Despite its invisible nature, the effects of dark matter’s gravity are observable. Scientists have been working tirelessly to detect dark matter particles, with the hope of solving one of the greatest enigmas in science.

Researchers from Lancaster University, the University of Oxford, and Royal Holloway, University of London have made significant progress in the quest to detect dark matter. By harnessing the power of quantum technologies and building highly sensitive detectors, they are at the forefront of dark matter research.

Dr. Michael Thompson, Professor Edward Laird, Dr. Dmitry Zmeev, and Dr. Samuli Autti are part of the team using quantum technologies at ultra-low temperatures to construct the most sensitive dark matter detectors to date. These detectors aim to directly observe dark matter particles in the lab, shedding light on their properties and interactions with ordinary matter.

Dark Matter Candidates

Particle physics theory suggests two potential dark matter candidates: new particles with ultra-weak interactions and axions, which are extremely light wave-like particles. The research team is developing two experiments to search for each candidate, utilizing cutting-edge technology to achieve world-leading sensitivity.

Detecting Dark Matter

New particles with ultra-weak interactions could be detected through collisions with ordinary matter. The sensitivity of the detectors plays a crucial role in identifying these collisions, with the goal of detecting dark matter candidates with mass as light as a few hydrogen atoms.

On the other hand, if dark matter is composed of axions, they would be incredibly light but abundant. Scientists are exploring the decay of axions in a magnetic field as a potential signature, requiring exquisitely sensitive quantum amplifiers to detect the electrical signal resulting from this decay.

The research team’s public exhibit, “A Quantum View of the Invisible Universe,” at the Royal Society’s Summer Science Exhibition showcases hands-on exhibits for all ages. Through interactive demonstrations, visitors can learn how dark matter is inferred from observing galaxies and explore the innovative technology used to achieve ultra-low temperatures for detecting dark matter.

The groundbreaking research conducted by the Quest-DMC and QSHS teams represents a significant step forward in the search for dark matter. By combining quantum technologies with advanced experimentation, scientists are getting closer to unraveling the mystery of dark matter and expanding our understanding of the universe.

The quest to solve the mystery of dark matter is an ongoing journey filled with challenges and breakthroughs. Through the relentless efforts of dedicated scientists and cutting-edge technology, we are inching closer to unlocking the secrets of the invisible universe.