Fundamentals of Dark Matter

by Ignacio Ferreras

Overview

A fundamental guide to the physics of dark matter, combining rigorous explanations with relevant exercises and questions to deepen students’ understanding.

Fundamentals of Dark Matter provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to one of the greatest mysteries in astrophysics. Designed for advanced undergraduates and graduate students, this textbook presents the key discoveries that led to the dark matter hypothesis and also fosters critical thinking with thought-provoking “How about…?” questions in each chapter.

Ignacio Ferreras guides readers through the historical challenges in galactic astrophysics and the cosmic microwave background, outlining the evidence that has made dark matter a fundamental component of modern cosmology. The book also explores the latest developments in galaxy formation and the ongoing search for the true nature of dark matter.

Each chapter includes clear learning outcomes and discussion questions, making it an ideal resource for courses in extragalactic astrophysics or cosmology. With its engaging pedagogical approach, Fundamentals of Dark Matter equips students with both the knowledge and the curiosity to explore one of the most dynamic areas of modern astrophysics.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781800084728
Publisher:	U C L Press, Limited
Publication date:	09/05/2025
Pages:	210
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x (d)

About the Author

Ignacio Ferreras is an astronomer at the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias in Tenerife. He holds an honorary professor position at UCL, at the Mullārd Space Science Laboratory, and the physics and astronomy department, where he worked for twelve years.

Table of Contents

List of figures
List of tables
Preface

1 An open window to the cosmos
2 Galaxies and dark matter
3 The standard halo plus galaxy paradigm
4 Simulating galaxy formation
5 The Big Bang and dark matter
6 Dark matter and particle physics
7 An alternative approach to dark matter
8 An even darker panorama: dark energy

Further reading
Index

Editorial Reviews

"This textbook offers an accessible introduction to one of the most intriguing topics in astrophysics. With a focus on foundational concepts, Ferreras provides readers with the essential tools to understand the basics of dark matter research, making this book a valuable resource for students and anyone beginning their journey into this fascinating field."

University of Amsterdam Gianfranco Bertone

"The nature of dark matter is one of major outstanding questions in astrophysics and Ignacio Ferreras provides a clear and thorough overview of the fundamental aspects of the field. The text contains formal exercises to test comprehension of the material but also more thought-provoking 'How about...?' questions that deepen the reader's understanding. This book is an ideal introduction to an exciting and dynamic area of research and I recommend it highly for advanced undergraduates and beginning graduate students."

Johns Hopkins University Rosemary Wyse