Shining Light on the Dark Side, Sept 10

Multiple lines of astronomical evidence show the existence of dark matter and dark energy — mysterious stuff whose gravity holds galaxies together and drives the accelerated expansion of the universe, respectively. Physicists have long assumed that this "dark sector" would at least partially consist of new, relatively massive particles, but have not been able to turn up clear evidence for them. A dark sector made of very light particles, however, could have escaped detection, yet is compatible with all astronomical and cosmological evidence. Precision measurements in physics are suitable to searching for such ultralight dark-sector candidates.

Dr. Holger Müller is Associate Professor of Physics at UC Berkeley. He and his research group develop experimental approaches to fundamental and applied physics questions. His expertise in instrument design was demonstrated at the ripe old age of 14 when he earned his first patent.

Dr. Holger Müller