Dark Matter and Dark Energy

TL;DR

This review summarizes current research in cosmology focusing on the cosmic microwave background, dark matter candidates, and explanations for cosmic acceleration, aimed at a general audience.

Contribution

It provides an accessible overview of key topics in cosmology, including recent developments and open questions, with emphasis on observational evidence and theoretical ideas.

Findings

CMB observations test inflation models

Astrophysical evidence supports dark matter existence

Various theories proposed for cosmic acceleration

Abstract

This is a short review, aimed at a general audience, of several current subjects of research in cosmology. The topics discussed include the cosmic microwave background (CMB), with particular emphasis on its relevance for testing inflation; dark matter, with a brief review of astrophysical evidence and more emphasis on particle candidates; and cosmic acceleration and some of the ideas that have been put forward to explain it. A glossary of technical terms and acronyms is provided.