Scientists have detected unusual signals from the heart of our galaxy, the Milky Way, which could hint at the presence of an unknown type of dark matter. A recent study suggests that this mysterious substance, which makes up about 85% of the universe yet remains invisible, may be shaping cosmic chemistry in ways we never imagined.
A New Dark Matter Candidate?
For decades, researchers have been on the hunt for dark matter’s elusive presence. Now, they propose a new possibility—self-annihilating dark matter, lighter than a proton, could be influencing the ionisation of interstellar gas. When two of these dark matter particles collide, they destroy each other, releasing high-energy electrons and positrons. These charged particles could be responsible for the unexpected levels of ionised gas in the Milky Way’s Central Molecular Zone (CMZ).
Previously, cosmic rays were thought to be the main drivers of ionisation, but they appear too weak to account for the observed abundance. This raises the possibility that dark matter has been subtly interacting with space in ways that have gone unnoticed.
Dark Matter Destroying Itself?
Most dark matter models suggest that it interacts only through gravity, but this new theory presents a bold challenge. If dark matter can self-annihilate, it could be stripping electrons from hydrogen molecules, altering the chemical makeup of the galaxy’s core.
Adding to the intrigue, scientists have also detected a faint gamma-ray glow from the Galactic Centre, which may be linked to this ionisation process. If further evidence supports this theory, it could revolutionise our understanding of dark matter and its role in the cosmos.
What’s Next?
To confirm these findings, scientists plan to gather precise ionisation measurements from the CMZ. If their distribution aligns with dark matter predictions, this groundbreaking theory will gain traction. The upcoming NASA COSI gamma-ray telescope, scheduled for launch in 2027, is expected to provide crucial data that could either confirm or challenge this bold new idea.
This discovery could be a game-changer in astrophysics, potentially bringing us one step closer to unlocking the secrets of the universe.
