Universe's matter-energy distribution, illustration. This pie chart shows a distribution of 5 percent visible matter, 27 percent dark matter, and 68 percent dark energy. Visible matter is what makes up stars and planets. Dark matter is a form of matter thought to comprise the bulk of the mass of the universe. Its presence can be inferred from the gravitational distortion of normal matter and light. Dark energy is a relatively unknown quantity that is thought to be driving the universe's expansion. Image published in 2016.