What is the source of dark matter and how can astronomers identify it? This is what a recent study published in Nature Astronomy hopes to address as an international team of scientists investigated new methods for identifying the source of dark matter. This study has the potential to help scientists gain greater insights into dark matter, which remains one of the most elusive and mysterious objects in the universe.
For the study, the researchers used a combination of computer models, mapping, and radio astronomy to examine the potential for studying radio waves emanating from the early universe. More specifically, the first 100 million years after the Big Bang, also called the Cosmic Dark Ages, or just before the first stars were born. The researchers postulate these radio waves could unlock longstanding secrets about the origin and purpose of dark matter, which is hypothesized to serve as the “glue” for keeping the universe together, including the stars, and galaxies.
In the end, the researchers concluded that using radio astronomy to examine the early universe for signs of dark matter shows incredible promise. However, they note this type of radio signal can only be detected from space, so they emphasize future missions could be used to conduct this research.
Computer simulated image of dark matter (dark lines). (Credit: Tel Aviv University)
“Just as old radio stations are being replaced with newer technology that brings forth websites and podcasts, astronomers are expanding the reach of radio astronomy,” said Dr. Rennan Barkana, who is a professor in the School of Physics and Astronomy at Tel Aviv University and a co-author on the study. “When scientists open a new observational window, surprising discoveries usually result. The holy grail of physics is to discover the properties of dark matter, the mysterious substance that we know constitutes most of the matter in the Universe, yet we do not know much about its nature and properties. Understandably, astronomers are eager to start tuning into the cosmic radio channels of the early Universe.”
Regarding potential future missions, the Moon could be an ideal location given its lack of atmospheric interference and freedom from radio communication from Earth on its far side, which constantly faces away from Earth.
How will this new method help solve the mystery of dark matter in the coming years and decades? Only time will tell, and this is why we science!
As always, keep doing science & keep looking up!
Sources: Nature Astronomy, EurekAlert!
