It turns out that the key to solving one of the BIGGEST mysteries of the cosmos is to look at some of the smallest answers. Physicists like Katherine Freese at the University of Michigan are looking to DNA to help guide to a much more definitive way of findind dark matter. The reason why this attempt, unlike the various tests that claim to have detected dark matter already, will work? It’s all in the genes…
The idea for this detection device revolves around a single gold atom and strands of DNA. It’s been theorized that a massive circle of WIMPs, or Weak Interacting Massive Particles, encircles our galaxy, which are known to be part of the makeup of dark matter. Our system revolves around the center of said galaxy, so in theory, it’s said that a solar wind of WIMPs pass through us at some point in time. If the dark matter detector, a stack of thin gold sheets with strands of DNA hanging from it, were to come in contact with the WIMPs, the nuclei of the gold particles would “whiz off, cutting through the DNA at specific locations in the strands”(Freese).
The goal here is to gather enough data to be able to map out the path of the flying nuclei and subsequent WIMP. After sufficient intervals of data have been processed, physicists say this would be compelling evidence to suggest that dark matter indeed exists. Still, the big question is whether or not this will even work. How many WIMP’s can one expect in a given period of time? Will DNA even shatter when contacted? There are plenty of unanswered questions, but scientists are still giving this all they have. Regardless of the outcome, some much needed answers could be rendered.
For the whole article, click here!
Detecting The Dark Stuff
We are a star trek roleplaying game
We are a free, fun, and friendly community of Star Trek fans who write collaborative fiction together. It’s easy to join – we’ll teach you everything you need to know!
Latest Mission Reports
Crew of the USS Astraeus agrees: There’s No Place Like Home
Federation News Service
February 27, 2024
Read More »
Constitution Crew Takes Shore Leave on the Enchanting Planet of Snow
Federation News Service
February 26, 2024
Read More »
Warp Signatures Discovered Near Emisa, USS Arrow Dispatched
Federation News Service
February 26, 2024
Read More »
Latest Interviews
Award winner – Randal Shayne – USS Arrow – (Christopher Pike Pendant)
Lhandon Nilsen
February 19, 2024
Read More »
Latest News
It’s time to chat! Join us today for our monthly fleetwide party.
Anjar Thoran
March 17, 2024
Read More »
Award winner – Hallia Yellir, USS Artemis-A (Prestigious Service Award)
Alora DeVeau
March 13, 2024
Read More »
OOC Activities
Looking for something fun to do? We have a whole list of fleet activities that are looking for members like yourself! Check out the Fleet Activity List today to see where you’ll fit in.