Dynamical friction from ultralight dark matter

We simulate the gravitational dynamics of a massive object interacting with Ultralight / Fuzzy Dark Matter (ULDM/FDM), non-relativistic quantum matter described by Schrodinger-Poisson equation. first consider point mass moving in uniform background, and then supermassive black hole (SMBH) within ULDM soliton. After replicating simple dynamical friction scenarios to verify our numerical strategies, we demonstrate that wake induced medium may undergo collapse dramatically increases drag force, albeit scenario unlikely be encountered astrophysically. broadly confirm estimates timescales for at center halo but see large excites coherent "breathing modes" These can lead "stone skipping" trajectories masses which do not sink uniformly toward soliton, as well stochastic motion near itself. effects will add complexity SMBH-ULDM interactions SMBH mergers universe.