Only four per cent of the universe we understand well in terms of the known elementary particles and their interactions in the form of the electromagnetic force, the weak and strong nuclear forces and gravity. Of the remaining 96 per cent of energy in the universe, we can see its effects but do not know what it is. Some of this is the so-called dark matter, and most of it is called dark energy. The gravity caused by dark matter holds galaxies and clusters of galaxies together. Dark energy, on the other hand, actually causes the universe as a whole to expand faster and faster. The search for the missing matter and energy is done by mapping the motions of celestial bodies, and by sensitive physics experiments. Theoretical physics also plays an important role here. Large international research programmes, including a major European satellite project, focus on the composition of dark matter and the equation of state of dark energy. The elucidation of the dark part of the universe is one of the greatest challenges in fundamental research, in which the Netherlands can play a decisive role.
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The question initially gives rise to very fundamental research, which will mostly take place in close international cooperation, such as at CERN. For some of this research, all kinds of instrumentation is essential. The development of such equipment poses major challenges for the high-tech industry. The practical knowledge gained there can often be used for other applications, thus offering new economic opportunities. To develop the most suitable equipment, the high-tech companies involved must work closely together in multidisciplinary teams with researchers in fields such as astronomy and fundamental physics.
