Dark Matter
Dark Matter is the name given to describe a general class of astrophysical matter which does not radiate (hence is dark) but exerts its influence on other matter gravitationally. Astrophysical observations can place constraints on the total mass of the Dark Matter, but cannot identify its specific properties on the particle level. For that, a particle theory is needed and is indeed handy. Supersymmetry, a theory which was proposed to resolve some questions that are unanswered by the Standard Model of particle physics, predicts the existence of a new particle (as of yet undetected). The properties of this particle are consistent with the astrophysical constraints placed on Dark Matter. Therefore, it appears that this new supersymmetric particle, referred to as Weak Interacting Massive Particle (WIMP), is an excellent candidate for Dark Matter.
