Physicists at the Perimeter Institute have developed a novel simulation method to study self-interacting dark matter, a type of dark matter that interacts with itself but not with ordinary matter, potentially triggering dramatic collapses within dark matter halos. The new simulations, unveiled January 19, 2026, offer insights into how these collisions could heat and densify the cores of dark matter halos, influencing galaxy formation and possibly seeding black holes.

For almost a century, dark matter's nature has eluded scientists, despite its crucial role in shaping the universe through gravitational influence. The new simulation addresses a critical gap in understanding the behavior of self-interacting dark matter, which was previously difficult to model accurately. The new code is designed for speed and precision, making it accessible enough to run on a standard laptop, according to researchers at the Perimeter Institute.

Dark matter halos are vast, invisible structures that surround galaxies, acting as scaffolding for their formation. The self-interaction of dark matter particles within these halos can lead to a "core collapse," where the central region of the halo becomes denser and hotter. This process can significantly alter the distribution of dark matter and, consequently, the evolution of the galaxies embedded within them.

The simulation employs advanced algorithms to model the complex interactions of dark matter particles. By simulating these interactions, researchers can observe the dynamics of core collapse and its effects on the surrounding environment. The ability to model this behavior accurately is a significant step forward in understanding the role of dark matter in the universe.

The implications of this research extend to our understanding of galaxy formation and the origins of supermassive black holes. If core collapse is a common phenomenon, it could explain some of the observed properties of galaxies, such as the density profiles of their dark matter halos. Furthermore, the concentration of dark matter in the core could provide a seed for the formation of supermassive black holes, which are found at the centers of most galaxies.

The researchers plan to use the new simulation to explore a wider range of dark matter models and to compare their predictions with observational data. This will help to refine our understanding of dark matter and its role in the universe. The accessibility of the code also opens up opportunities for other researchers to contribute to this field, potentially leading to new discoveries in the near future.