Dark matter in dwarf galaxies of the Local Group

TL;DR

This paper reviews the properties of Local Group dwarf galaxies, especially dwarf spheroidals near the Milky Way, critically assesses evidence for dark matter, discusses dynamical modeling methods, and explores their potential for dark matter detection.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive review of dark matter evidence in dwarf galaxies, including modeling techniques and future detection prospects.

Findings

Strong evidence for dark matter in dwarf spheroidals

Dynamical modeling methods have uncertainties

Dwarf galaxies are promising dark matter detection targets

Abstract

We review basic properties of the population of dwarf galaxies in the Local Group focusing on dwarf spheroidal galaxies found in the immediate vicinity of the Milky Way. The evidence for dark matter in these objects is critically assessed. We describe the methods of dynamical modelling of such objects, using a few examples of the best-studied dwarfs and discuss the sources of uncertainties in mass estimates. We conclude with perspectives for dwarf galaxies as targets for dark matter detection experiments.