Dark Matter

Dark matter is one of the most enigmatic components of our universe, comprising approximately 27% of its mass-energy content while ordinary matter constitutes a mere 5%. This invisible substance, which does not interact with light or other forms of electromagnetic radiation, is detectable only through its gravitational effects on visible matter, such as galaxies. The concept of dark matter emerged in the 1930s when Swiss astronomer Fritz Zwicky observed that galaxies were moving too swiftly to remain bound by the gravitational pull of observable matter alone. Later validations by Vera Rubin and others in the 1970s solidified its status as a fundamental element in astrophysics, reshaping our understanding of cosmic structure and dynamics. Ongoing research into dark matter involves diverse methodologies, including advanced experiments like the LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) experiment, which is designed to identify weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPs), a leading candidate for dark matter. Additionally, new theories speculate about its composition, proposing intriguing ideas such as "mirror worlds" and the potential for dark matter to influence light itself, revealing detectable features. These investigations not only aim to elucidate the nature of dark matter but also its role in the evolutionary history of the universe, ultimately addressing critical questions regarding the fundamental forces that govern cosmic structures. As scientists continue to unravel these mysteries, the exploration of dark matter remains a pivotal endeavor in modern cosmology and particle physics.