Cozmic’s Milky Way Models Unlock Dark Universe Mysteries

Rapid Summary

• A USC-led research team created COZMIC (“Cosmological Zoom-in Simulations wiht Initial Conditions beyond Cold Dark Matter”), a supercomputer simulation of galaxies to explore dark matter.
• Dark matter is an invisible substance comprising 85% of all matter and affects galaxy movement and formation.
• COZMIC allowed scientists to simulate Milky Way-like galaxies under different physical laws, testing interactions between dark and normal matter.
• The research was co-led by cosmologist Vera Gluscevic (USC), Ethan Nadler (UC San Diego), Andrew Benson (Carnegie Observatories), and Hai-Bo Yu (UC Riverside), among others.
• three studies published in The Astrophysical Journal detail scenarios studied through COZMIC:

– Billiard-ball model: Dark matter particles colliding with protons early in the universe, smoothing structures and eliminating satellite galaxies.
– Mixed-sector model: hybrid scenario with selective interaction between particles of dark and normal matter.
– Self-interacting model: Interaction within dark matter itself across cosmic history affecting galaxy formation.

• Scientists aim to compare simulated galaxies from COZMIC with telescope images to better understand the nature of dark matter.

Indian Opinion Analysis
India has growing aspirations for advancements in astrophysics, cosmology, and technology. This breakthrough holds significance as it demonstrates how computational simulations like COZMIC can lead to pivotal discoveries about universal mysteries like dark matter. Indian institutions could take inspiration from such interdisciplinary collaborations combining particle physics,astronomy,data science,and computational power.

Moreover, as India develops its space-tech sector through initiatives like ISRO’s explorations or public-private partnerships for telescope projects such as Astrosat or satellite-based observations-engaging deeper into essential questions about cosmic phenomena may elevate India’s scientific contributions globally. Integrating advanced simulations akin to COZMIC into domestic programs might nurture innovation while attracting international collaboration opportunities.

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