Measures of luminous and dark matter in galaxies across time

TL;DR

This paper reviews methods for measuring luminous and dark matter in galaxies across different epochs, compares observations with simulations, and discusses implications for understanding dark matter's nature and alternatives.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of current techniques, challenges, and future strategies for estimating galaxy masses and probing dark matter properties.

Findings

Standard model successes and inconsistencies highlighted

Robust mass measurement techniques discussed

Potential of future observations to reveal dark matter nature

Abstract

Dark matter is one of the pillars of the current standard model of structure formation: it is assumed to constitute most of the matter in the Universe. However, it can so far only be probed indirectly through its gravitational effects, and its nature remains elusive. In this focus meeting, we discussed different methods used to estimate galaxies' visible and dark matter masses in the nearby and distant Universe. We reviewed successes of the standard model relying on cold dark matter, confronted observations with simulations, and highlighted inconsistencies between the two. We discussed how robust mass measurements can help plan, perform, and refine particle dark matter searches. We further exchanged about alternatives to cold dark matter, such as warm, self-interacting, and fuzzy dark matter, as well as modified gravity. Finally, we discussed prospects and strategies that could be implemented to reveal the nature of this crucial component of the Universe.