Proceedings, 8th International Workshop on the Dark Side of the Universe (DSU 2012)

Recent observations suggest that about 95% of the Universe's energy lies in a dark sector. This sector is comprised of dark matter, a form of non-luminous matter, and dark energy whose origin and composition is unknown. Dark matter seems to make up 23% of the Universe and it possibly consists of new exotic particles that interact very weakly with ordinary matter. Dark energy, about 73% of the Universe, is responsible for a mysterious force that is speeding up its expansion. The origin and microscopic composition of dark matter and dark energy are outstanding fundamental problems in physics, and may possibly find a resolution in new theories pointing beyond the standard models of particle physics and cosmology. This prompts a strong connection between particle physics, astrophysics and cosmology. The aim of the meeting is to bring together experts from all around the world to discuss the latest advances in the theoretical, phenomenological and experimental aspects of the field.