Unlocking the secrets of dark matter using floating glass spheres

04 July 2023 18:00 - 22:00 The Royal Society Free
UCL dark matter activity

This event is part of the Royal Society's Summer Science Exhibition 2023.

Embark on a captivating journey into the unknown. Astronomical research has revealed that a staggering 85% of the universe's mass is dark matter, but we don’t yet know what dark matter actually is. Huge international efforts are now underway to find the answer to this important mystery. 

Our team from University College London will demonstrate a new type of quantum sensor that uses the levitation of microscopic glass spheres in vacuum. 

This sensor aims to detect the tiny collisions between the dark matter around us and the spheres. You will be able to experience this detector first-hand and be able to simulate dark matter collisions in real-time and see them with your own eyes.

Attending the event

This drop-in activity will be held in the Dining room on Tuesday 4 July 2023, 6pm-10pm.

  • Free to attend
  • In person only
  • No registration required
  • Suitable for 18+
  • Travel and accessibility information - contact us directly to arrange any specific accessibility requirements
  • Food and drink will be available for purchase at our onsite café

For all enquiries, please email us.