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Dark matter is a theoretical part of matter that refers to the portion of the universe that remains unquantifiable. However, the existence of dark matter remains to be proven.

Evidence

Evidence for the existence of dark matter is indirect but its existence can be inferred by the gravitational effects on visible matter. Scientists developed the theory after their attempts to calculate the mass of the universe resulted in a significantly greater mass than could be accounted for with visible matter. Astronomers Jan Oort and Fritz Zwicky coined the term to explain the mass that must exist but could not be seen.

Alternative Explanations

Skeptics of dark matter have proposed that its existence is likely due to a lack of understanding of gravitation.

Dark Matter In Scifi

Portrayals of dark matter in sci fi would likely make astrophysicists cringe. It is often shown as a visible substance with incredible properties that can be used for a variety of purposes including propulsion and weapons.

• Futurama – Dark matter is excreted by Nibbler, Leela's pet, and his race the Nibblonians, and used as a fuel for their spaceship.
• Outer Limits in an episode of the anthology series, "Dark Matters", a spaceship and its crew becomes trapped in a pocket of space created by dark matter.
• Dark Storm Sci Film in which a device is used to charge dark matter and directs it a target resulting in its destruction. The main character played by Stephen Baldwin inhales the substance which grants him super powers.

External Links

• BBC Science - Dark Mattet
• BBC - Team finds evidence of Dark Matter
• Imagine the Universe Dark matter at NASA
• CNN Dark Matte Exists

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