Explorations in Astronomy & Astrophysics

Galactic Shadows: Investigating the Role of Low Surface Brightness Galaxies in Dark Matter Studies

Abstract

Diriba Gonfa Tolasa

This research paper explores the critical role of low surface brightness (LSB) galaxies in advancing our understanding of dark
matter, a fundamental yet elusive component of the universe. LSB galaxies, characterized by their faint luminosity and extended
structures, often harbor significant dark matter halos, making them invaluable for probing the properties and distribution
of dark matter. Utilizing a combination of observational data from prominent surveys such as the Sloan Digital Sky Survey
(SDSS) and the Hubble Space Telescope (HST), alongside advanced dynamical modeling techniques, this study investigates the
relationships between the structural characteristics of LSB galaxies and the nature of dark matter. Preliminary findings indicate
that the mass-to-light ratios in these galaxies provide strong evidence supporting various dark matter models, suggesting that
LSB galaxies can serve as essential proxies for understanding dark matter particles. Furthermore, the analysis of rotation
curves reveals flat profiles consistent with dark matter dominance, while correlations between galaxy morphology and dark
matter density profiles highlight the complex interplay between gravitational interactions and galaxy formation processes.
This research ultimately contributes to a deeper understanding of galaxy evolution and the potential characteristics of dark
matter, paving the way for future investigations aimed at unraveling the mysteries surrounding this enigmatic component of
the cosmos.

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