Hunt for dark matter nearing final phase

[spacemaverick]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-24733131

Scientists could be nearing the final phase of the search for dark matter: the enigmatic substance thought to make up a quarter of our Universe.

The first results from a particle detector called LUX show it is the most powerful experiment of its kind.

It did not detect any dark matter during its first run, but scientists say it is poised to probe deeper than ever before during its second in 2014.

It has also ruled out earlier hints of dark matter shown by other experiments.

Dr Chamkaur Ghag, a collaborator on the LUX experiment from University College London, said: "If the dark matter is out there and if it interacts the way we think it does we should really start seeing it now."

Not finding any direct evidence for dark matter particles would mean that physicists would have to "go back to the drawing board", he added.

See above link for more.  I thought it was interesting...

[zorgon]

If Dark Matter makes up a lot of the Universe, why is it so hard to find?

[Fruitbat]

Because up until now scientists have lacked a really GOOD L.E.D. torch?

Space, dark. Dark matter, ditto.

It ain't easy being a scientis' you know...

FB!

[Pimander]

If space does have mass and energy then dark matter and dark energy..... 

[1Worldwatcher]

We have a spent Gold mine here in South Dakota, drops over a mile deep into the earth, the LUX Co. purchased the Gold mine and turned it into a "Neutrino/Dark Matter" trapping and research facility. We are actually getting news broadcast information of possible new discoveries as recent as yesterday 5 PM news cast.

May have to dig deeper for further information, but, it is very relevant that the scientists really do want to get the DM or AM figured out.  Just thought I would add to this story.

Sanford Underground Research Facility, Homestake Gold Mine, Rapid City South Dakota

1WW