The Vortex State of Ultralight Dark Matter and the Fornax Timing Problem

Universe 2026 Open access

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Authors: V. Gorkavenko, O. V. Barabash, T. V. Gorkavenko, K. Korshynska, Olena Teslyk, Andrii Zaporozhchenko, Eduard V. Gorbar
DOI: 10.3390/universe12020039
Cited by: 1
References: 37

Abstract

We investigate the impact of the vortex state of ultralight dark matter (ULDM) on the dynamical friction acting on moving globular clusters. Comparing this force with that for the solitonic ground state, it is shown that the internal structure and rotation of the ULDM core strongly affect the orbital decay of globular clusters. In particular, co-directional rotation in a vortex state can lead to significant suppression of dynamic friction at certain distances where globular clusters and ULDM velocities match. Applying these findings to the Fornax dwarf galaxy, it is found that the Fornax timing problem is naturally alleviated.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Dark Matter and Cosmic Phenomena Cosmology and Gravitation Theories Galaxies: Formation Evolution Phenomena

Publication details

Journal / source
Universe
Publisher
MDPI AG
Volume
12
Issue
2
Pages
39–39
Publication date
30 January 2026
Language
EN