A groundbreaking potential approach for identifying and understanding dark matter has been developed by a researcher at Colorado State University. This approach will utilize the enormous particle detectors at the international Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE), which are set to become operational in 2028.
The release of energy from dark matter interactions could be detected by the large-scale, highly sensitive DUNE detectors. If successful, this could provide crucial insights into the nature of dark matter, which is currently an enigmatic missing component in the universe.
Dark matter, which constitutes the majority of the universe’s mass and energy, has eluded direct observation due to its elusive nature. However, its existence is inferred from its gravitational effects on galaxies. The researcher, Berger, is optimistic that the DUNE detectors will be able to detect evidence of dark matter, shedding light on this mysterious substance.
“Roughly 85% of the universe’s matter is dark, yet it remains invisible and does not correspond to any known particles. Understanding the nature of dark matter is crucial for unraveling the fundamental building blocks of the universe,” explained Berger.
While the primary focus is on dark matter, the DUNE experiment is poised to address a myriad of other profound cosmic questions.
2024-03-31 20:51:03
Link from phys.org