The universe is shrouded in darkness, with approximately 80% of its matter being invisible to the naked eye. Dark matter is a perplexing enigma that has baffled scientists for years. It permeates through space, passing through us at an astonishing rate of trillions of particles per second. Despite its hidden nature, we can detect the presence of dark matter through its gravitational effects on visible matter. However, detecting dark matter directly has proven to be a challenging task.
A groundbreaking initiative led by scientists from Lancaster University, the University of Oxford, and Royal Holloway, University of London aims to shed light on this elusive substance. Through the utilization of cutting-edge quantum technologies, researchers are developing the most sensitive dark matter detectors to date. This project, titled “A Quantum View of the Invisible Universe,” is currently being showcased at the Royal Society’s flagship Summer Science Exhibition. Dr. Michael Thompson, Professor Edward Laird, Dr. Dmitry Zmeev, and Dr. Samuli Autti from Lancaster, along with Professor Jocelyn Monroe from Oxford and Professor Andrew Casey from RHUL, are at the forefront of this groundbreaking research.
Two primary candidates have emerged from particle physics theory as potential forms of dark matter: 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 of these candidates. The detection of new particles with ultra-weak interactions relies on the collision of dark matter particles with ordinary matter. However, the success of detecting these collisions hinges on the mass of the dark matter being searched for.
The Quantum Enhanced Superfluid Technologies for Dark Matter and Cosmology (QUEST-DMC) team is focusing on achieving world-leading sensitivity in detecting dark matter collisions with mass ranging from 0.01 to a few hydrogen atoms. By utilizing superfluid helium-3 and superconducting quantum amplifiers, the team aims to enhance the detection capabilities to measure extremely weak signatures of dark matter collisions. On the other hand, the Quantum Sensors for the Hidden Sector (QSHS) team is developing quantum amplifiers tailored for detecting axion signals, which result from the decay of axions in a magnetic field.
The public exhibit at the Royal Society’s Summer Science Exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the realm of dark matter. Engaging hands-on exhibits provide insight into how scientists infer the presence of dark matter by observing galaxies. From gyroscopes that defy expectations to model dark matter particle collision detectors, the exhibits offer a glimpse into the invisible universe. Attendees can participate in activities such as searching for dark matter with a model axion detector and creating their own parametric amplifier using simple tools.
Through the convergence of quantum technologies and scientific ingenuity, the quest for dark matter is taking a significant leap forward. As researchers strive to unlock the mysteries of the universe’s hidden realms, public engagement and education play a crucial role in fostering curiosity and understanding. The future holds promise for unraveling the secrets of dark matter, and with each technological advancement, we draw closer to illuminating the invisible universe that surrounds us.
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