In the UK, physicists at the University of Southampton are developing a novel space-based detector to hunt for dark matter. Scheduled for launch in early 2026 aboard the Jovian-1 satellite, the experiment will leverage levitated graphite sheets in microgravity to identify subtle anomalies indicative of dark matter interactions.
Physicist Tim Fuchs explains, "Dark matter remains one of the great unanswered questions; it dictates the structure of our Universe, yet is undetectable." The mission aims to address why existing Earth-based experiments have failed to produce conclusive signals.
The Jovian-1 satellite, about the size of a shoebox, will orbit Earth for two years. Fuchs details the experiment: "We will levitate graphite between magnets which, in zero gravity, become extremely sensitive to tiny forces. If dark matter has a high enough density, a 'dark wind' will gently push our levitated particles with a measurable force, potentially marking its first direct detection."
This approach is unique, as it uses levitation technology in space, potentially circumventing limitations of ground-based detectors that may be shielded by the atmosphere or geological formations. The results, whether positive or negative, promise to provide critical insights into the nature of dark matter.
Separately, Chinese astronauts have achieved in-space rocket fuel creation using artificial photosynthesis, and scientists are exploring the origins and distribution of water on the Moon, highlighting ongoing advancements in space exploration and resource utilization.