Let’s Get This Right
The recent research on the distribution and kinematics of small satellite galaxies orbiting larger galaxies does not question dark matter. Rather it incisively questions the current Lambda Cold Dark Matter (LCDM) cosmological paradigm, and it questions the self-validating cosmological simulations based on the LCDM, and it questions our surprisingly inadequate galaxy formation models (also based on LCDM assumptions).
The crucial problem is that the LCDM paradigm is based on ad hoc and thoroughly mythical subatomic particles (the Cold Dark Matter) that have never been observed and probably never will.
If astrophysicists woke up and took a good scientific look at empirical observations, they would see that primordial black holes are currently by far the best candidate for the dark matter. They need to own up to the fact that the LCDM paradigm has been holding up progress for decades.
The change in dark matter assumptions would herald a new paradigm that could start getting the right answers for a change. For sure, theoretical inertia fiercely resists changes of direction, but LCDM buffs are fighting a losing battle.