Speaker
Description
Galaxy simulations provide a powerful framework for testing dark matter models by linking theoretical predictions to observable structures across cosmic scales. By studying the formation and evolution of galaxies in different dark matter scenarios, simulations help identify signatures that could distinguish between cold dark matter and alternative models. Low surface brightness features, such as stellar streams and diffuse halos, are particularly promising probes since their structure and persistence are sensitive to the gravitational potential they evolve in. Dwarf galaxies, with their shallow potentials and high dark matter fractions, offer additional constraints, as their formation and abundance depend on the fundamental properties of dark matter. However, the complex interplay of baryonic processes complicates this picture, making it essential to disentangle their effects from those of dark matter. I will highlight recent advances in high-resolution cosmological and idealized simulations that aim to address this challenge, including efforts within the ARRAKIHS mission to leverage detailed observations of Milky Way analogs. These combined approaches are key to refining our understanding of dark matter’s role in shaping galaxies and the large-scale universe.