Astronomers Explore Different Physics on Simulated Clones of the Milky Way

How do you search for a substance that doesn't give off any kind of light, but its gravitational influence shapes galaxies? That's the challenge researchers face as they try to find and explain the mysterious substance called dark matter. They're wrestling with an invisible "something" that appears to make up much of all matter in the Universe.

Jun 28, 2025 - 00:42

Astronomers Explore Different Physics on Simulated Clones of the Milky Way

This artist concept illustrates our current view of the Milky Way. The galaxy’s two major arms can be seen attached to the ends of a thick central bar, while the two now-demoted minor arms are less distinct and located between the major arms. Dark matter played a role in its evolution. (Courtesy/NASA/JPL-Caltech)

How do you search for a substance that doesn't give off any kind of light, but its gravitational influence shapes galaxies? That's the challenge researchers face as they try to find and explain the mysterious substance called dark matter. They're wrestling with an invisible "something" that appears to make up much of all matter in the Universe.