Fast Facts
- Jessica Fry searches for dark matter particle axion to explain universe’s unseen matter.
- She combines physics research with dance, reflecting her diverse passions and skills.
- Fry works on experiments ABRACADABRA and DMRadio to detect axions via magnetic fields.
- She believes dark matter discovery is imminent, emphasizing ongoing tuning and research.
Chasing the Universe’s Hidden Matter
Physicists are on a quest to find dark matter, which makes up about 85% of all matter in the universe. Despite its large presence, no one has directly detected it yet. Jessica Fry, a fifth-year physics PhD student at MIT, is actively searching for what might be the best candidate for dark matter: the axion. It is a tiny, nearly invisible particle that behaves more like a wave than a traditional particle. Fry works on two experiments designed to detect these elusive particles. Both experiments use strong magnetic fields to find faint electric signals caused by axions. The signals are hard to spot because they are buried in noise, but Fry and her team tune their detectors carefully to find the distinctive patterns that signal axions might exist.
The Hunt’s Challenges and Progress
Detecting axions is a complicated task. The signals are extremely faint, requiring sensitive equipment and precise tuning. Fry’s work involves amplifying these signals and filtering out interference from environmental noise. She collaborates with expert researchers and uses sophisticated technology to make her search more effective. Fry’s passion for discovery is fueled by her belief that she will see dark matter found someday. She is hopeful and confident, believing the detection will happen within her lifetime. Her progress has already earned her recognition, including a spot on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Science list. Fry continues her research, eager to contribute to solving one of science’s biggest mysteries.
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