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ArchiveLesson #177Science

Scientists May Detect Dark Matter Soon

Scientists think they are close to finding dark matter, a mysterious substance that makes up much of the universe. This discovery could change how we understand the universe.

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Standard: natural English

For decades, scientists have been trying to understand dark matter. This mysterious is believed to make up about 85% of the matter in the . However, dark matter cannot be seen or directly. We mainly know about it through its gravitational on stars and galaxies. Recently, scientists have made progress in dark matter. If their findings are confirmed, it could change our understanding of the completely. Ian Sample, a science editor, discusses these findings with Dr. Samuel Eriksen. Dr. Eriksen is a senior researcher at the University of Bristol and the first author of the paper. He shares how the physics community has reacted to this exciting news.

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Narration includes the headline and summary.

Adapted from The Guardian, 10 September 2026, and rewritten at three levels by Newslish. Newslish is not affiliated with the source. Read the original.

Grammar in this story

If their findings are confirmed, it could change our understanding of the universe completely.

Conditional. Read the guide

Key vocabulary

  • substance noun

    A type of material or matter.

    Water is a common substance found on Earth.

  • detecting verb

    Finding or discovering something.

    Scientists are detecting new planets in space.

  • effects noun

    Changes that happen because of something else.

    The effects of the storm were felt across the city.

  • universe noun

    All of space and everything in it.

    Astronomers study the universe to learn about stars and galaxies.

  • research noun

    Careful study to find new information.

    The research on climate change is very important.

Quick quiz

01What is the article mainly about?

02What does the word 'effects' mean in the text?

03How much of the universe is dark matter?

04Who is Dr. Samuel Eriksen?

Answered 0 of 4

Discussion

How do you think finding dark matter will change our understanding of the universe? In your answer, use the words 'mysterious' and 'effects'.