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3h ago

Johns Hopkins Simulations Bolster Dark-Matter Explanation for Galactic Center Glow

Upcoming CTA observations could distinguish dark‑matter annihilation from pulsar emission.

A render of the Cherenkov Telescope Array.
A bright band of diffuse gamma ray glow along the map's center, which marks the central plane of the Milky Way galaxy, is seen in an undated image based on five years of data from NASA's Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope. NASA/DOE/Fermi LAT Collaboration/Handout via REUTERS

Overview

  • A peer‑reviewed study published Oct. 16 in Physical Review Letters reports that formation‑aware, high‑resolution simulations reproduce the Milky Way’s gamma‑ray excess seen by Fermi.
  • The simulated dark‑matter annihilation signal matches the observed Galactic Center pattern more closely than models based on known astrophysical sources.
  • The team finds that a pulsar explanation would require a larger neutron‑star population than has been observed to date.
  • Researchers emphasize the result is not a definitive detection and that alternative astrophysical contributions remain possible.
  • The Cherenkov Telescope Array, expected to begin operations in late 2026, is anticipated to provide higher‑resolution tests, including targeted searches of dark‑matter‑dominated dwarf galaxies.