The cold dark matter model has been extremely successful in explaining several fundamental properties of galaxy formation and evolution, as well as the large-scale structure of the Universe. However, it exhibits some discrepancies at galactic scales, which has sparked interest in alternative dark matter models. 

The study of the low surface brightness universe has gained momentum over the last 20 years, thanks to its potential to provide insights into the physics of our Universe. This is the universe with the lowest density of stars, where dark matter reigns. Consequently, the structural properties of low surface brightness objects are determined by the nature of the dark matter, and can be used to understand this elusive component.

In this talk I will discuss how recent developments in ultra-deep imaging are accelerating our ability to understand the nature of dark matter.