Direct Detection of Dark Matter Particles

In this conference the model-independent result on the presence of dark-matter paticles in the galactic halo obtained over seven annual cycles by the 100kg highly radiopure NaI(T1) DAMA/NaI has been presented and several corollary investigations have also been discussed. More recently the model-independent result obtaind over the first four annual cycles by the second generation 250kg highly radiopure NaI(T1) DAMA/LIBRA set-up at the Gran Sasso National Laboratory of the INFN has also been released. Both the experiments have the unique feature to effectively investigate the presence of dark-matter particles in the galactic halo by exploiting the model-independent annual modulation signature. The data collected by the two experiments over elevn annual cycles for a total exposure of 0.82ton x y have pointed out at 8.2 sigma CL a positive result; several corollary model-dependent quests for the candidate particle(s) and related astrophysical, nuclear and particle physics scenarios are under updating. The future experimental activity can give rise to many new interesting results