This course explores the mysteries of dark matter and dark energy in the universe. Participants will learn about the invisible components that make up 96% of the cosmos, how they are detected, and their impact on the universe. The course covers topics such as the lensing effect, particle detection methods, and the implications of dark energy. The teaching method includes presentations by leading researchers and demonstrations. This course is intended for individuals interested in astronomy, physics, and cosmology.
Overview
Syllabus
Brian Greene's introduction on dark matter.
What we don,t see by MOMIX
John Hockenberry's Introduction.
Participant Introductions
Why do we know that there is dark matter?
The lensing effect that reveals dark matter.
A computer simulation of what dark matter was doing as the universe was expanding.
Capturing Wimps with the XENON100.
What the XENON100 detector looks like.
Where do we go to find events that prove dark matter exists?
If lensing is correct, could that determine an unknown force?
Supersymmetry vs Another Universal Brane.
Using a supernova to detect Dark Matter.
How does a supernova tell you about dark matter?
How did Einstein predict that dark energy existed?
What is the counter explanation of dark energy?
The ratio of dark energy makes a perfect environment for life.
Taught by
World Science Festival
