by InTrieste
Hidden beneath the vast expanse of the universe lies one of modern physics’ greatest enigmas: dark matter. Comprising an estimated 25% of the universe, its true nature remains an unanswered question, one that scientists across the globe are determined to solve. Tomorrow, the Throne Room of Miramare Castle in Trieste will host the final event in the “From Miramare to the Cosmos” series, shedding light on this cosmic puzzle with a special focus on Antarctica’s role in the search.
Riccardo Munini of the Italian National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN) will take attendees on a journey from the furthest reaches of the universe to the icy desert of Antarctica. At the heart of the discussion is GAPS, an innovative experiment designed to measure antimatter in cosmic rays using a balloon-borne observatory. By collecting vast amounts of data, the GAPS mission aims to offer critical insights into the nature of dark matter.
Why Antarctica?
Antarctica’s extreme environment might seem an unlikely destination for cutting-edge astrophysical research, yet it is precisely this remoteness that makes it ideal. The pristine skies and minimal interference provide a unique vantage point for experiments like GAPS. Munini will delve into the reasons behind choosing this icy landscape and how it may help scientists unravel the secrets of the cosmos.
A Public Invitation to Science
Organized by the Institute for Fundamental Physics of the Universe (IFPU) in collaboration with the Historical Museum and Park of Miramare Castle and supported by SISSA Medialab, the “From Miramare to the Cosmos” series has offered the public a rare glimpse into cutting-edge research. The final event promises to continue this tradition, combining accessibility with scientific rigor.
Attendance is free but limited to 60 participants per event, with reservations required. In a gesture of appreciation, IFPU will provide attendees with a complimentary ticket to the Miramare Museum, allowing them to explore the Castle and the Ars Botanica exhibition. Registration is limited to four tickets per person and can be completed online at IFPU’s website.
Bringing the Universe Closer
“This is not just about understanding the cosmos; it’s about inviting the public into the conversation,” said an IFPU representative. By combining breathtaking locations like Miramare Castle with groundbreaking scientific dialogue, the series has succeeded in bridging the gap between the scientific community and the broader public.
As scientists push the boundaries of knowledge, events like these remind us that the quest to understand our universe is a shared endeavor. Whether through the lens of a telescope, the data from a balloon observatory, or the imagination of a captivated audience, the mysteries of dark matter may one day come to light.
