ABSTRACT:
The as-yet undiscovered dark matter particle(s)/field(s) has come to dominate our cosmic matter paradigm. Some of the earliest hints of dark matter were seen in the dynamics of galaxies and confirmed at the largest scales measurable, yet the foremost challenge to the favored cold dark matter model arises in the smallest scales of galaxy dynamics. While whole disciplines beyond astrophysics are now devoted to the search for dark matter candidates, I will highlight unique opportunities in galaxy evolution studies to constrain dark matter models. Such studies can take advantage of a wide variety of existing and future observational facilities, including instruments which could be supported by new and enticing high-altitude airship and aerostat platform concepts in development.