The Case for Dark Matter

Synopsis: Over the past 50 years, astronomers have become increasingly certain that most of the Universe is made up of a mysterious invisible substance that we do not properly understand. This stuff — known as ‘Dark Matter’ — is thought to play an integral role in the evolution of the Universe, and is ultimately responsible for our existence here on Earth. But despite its importance, Dark Matter has never actually been detected! I lay out the observational evidence that has led scientists to believe something which — on the surface — seems so incredibly bizarre.

Bio: Matt is an astrophysicist, science communicator and author, and the current Public Astronomer at the Institute of Astronomy, University of Cambridge. He received my PhD in astronomy from the University of Cambridge and worked as a galaxy evolution researcher for a decade before turning my love of science communication into a full-time position. I…