A consortium of global scientists has created a groundbreaking method to explore the mysteries of dark matter found in the universe. Their investigation involves the use of atomic clocks and cavity-stabilized lasers to search for this elusive substance.
A consortium of global scientists has created a groundbreaking method to explore the mysteries of dark matter found in the universe.
Ashlee Caddell, a PhD student from the University of Queensland, co-led a study in partnership with Germany’s National Metrology Institute, Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), which focused on dark matter detection through atomic clocks and high-precision lasers.
“Even though there are numerous theories and experiments, scientists have yet to discover dark matter, which we think of as the ‘glue’ that binds galaxies together,” Caddell stated.
“In our research, we took a novel approach — by analyzing data from a network of ultra-stable lasers linked via fiber optic cables and two atomic clocks mounted on GPS satellites.”
“In this context, dark matter behaves like a wave due to its extremely low mass.”
“We employ the separated clocks to detect changes in the wave, which would appear as the clocks showing differing times or ticking at different frequencies, a phenomenon that becomes more prominent the farther apart the clocks are.”
The team managed to investigate forms of dark matter that have previously remained hidden because they do not emit light or energy.
“By conducting precise measurements over extensive distances, we uncovered the subtle effects of oscillating dark matter fields that would typically cancel out in standard experimental setups,” Caddell explained.
“Notably, we were able to probe signals from dark matter models that interact universally with all atoms, a feat that has evaded traditional experiments.”
Dr. Benjamin Roberts, a physicist from UQ and co-author of the study, expressed that the research brings scientists closer to grasping one of the universe’s most mysterious and essential elements.
“This advancement allows researchers to explore a wider array of dark matter scenarios, potentially addressing key questions about the structure of the universe,” Dr. Roberts remarked.
“Additionally, this endeavor underscores the significance of international collaboration and cutting-edge technology, utilizing PTB’s advanced atomic clocks alongside UQ’s proficiency in precision measurement and fundamental physics.”
