Science
Unveiling Dark Matter's Secrets
Discover dark matter, the mysterious substance making up 85% of the universe's mass. Learn why it's crucial for understanding galaxy formation.
What is it?
Dark matter is a mysterious substance comprising about 85% of all matter in the universe. It is "dark" because it does not absorb, reflect, or emit any light, making it entirely invisible to our telescopes. We only know it exists because of its gravitational effects on visible matter. This unseen mass provides the extra gravity needed to hold entire galaxies together and explains the observed rotation speeds of stars, which would otherwise fly apart into space.
Why is it trending?
The search for dark matter is one of the most active frontiers in physics. It's trending due to cutting-edge experiments using massive underground detectors and particle colliders like the LHC to hunt for dark matter particles. New data from telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope also provide clues about its role in the early universe. Every potential discovery or new theory generates significant excitement, as confirming its nature would revolutionize our understanding of cosmology.
How does it affect people?
While you can't touch or see it, dark matter's role is fundamental to our existence. It provided the gravitational scaffolding that allowed the first galaxies, stars, and planets to form. Without the clumping effect of dark matter in the early universe, the structures necessary for life, including our own Milky Way galaxy, would likely not exist. Understanding it is key to answering basic questions about our cosmic origins.