Dark Matter: A New Clue from Deep Underground?

by Dr Mohamed Rameez (DHEP-TIFR), Dr Rajdeep Chatterjee (DHEP-TIFR)

Wednesday 23 Sept 2026, 16:00 → 18:00 Asia/Kolkata

AG66

An unusual event in the LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) experiment has brought renewed attention to one of physics’ most enduring questions: what is dark matter? In this joint colloquium, we will first introduce the theoretical motivation for dark matter and its possible constituents. We will explain how direct, indirect and collider searches seek to uncover its identity, and revisit earlier claims and their interpretations. We will then describe the LZ experiment and the recent result that has generated fresh interest. The discussion will examine possible explanations for the event and their implications for our understanding of dark matter. The colloquium will conclude by placing the LZ result in the broader context of dark matter searches and explore its implications for future work. 

The colloquium will be followed by an extended discussion session, with active participation from the audience.