Speaker
Description
The search for axions remains one of the most compelling frontiers in particle physics, offering a simultaneous solution to the strong CP problem and the nature of dark matter. Under the framework of the RADES collaboration, the DarkQuantum ERC Synergy Grant is spearheading a transformative approach to axion detection by integrating superconducting quantum technologies into haloscope experiments. While high-frequency searches focus on photon counting, the DarkQuantum Low-Frequency (DQLF) program targets the 1-2 ueV mass range (200-500 MHz). At these frequencies, the primary challenge lies in the large cavity dimensions and large magnets required, and the noise limits of traditional amplification.
To address these challenges, the collaboration is currently constructing a first-generation prototype based on an about 1 m resonant cavity, already capable of reaching discovery-level sensitivity in the 1-2 ueV region. This prototype will serve as a testbed for quantum-enhanced detection technologies and for the development of large-volume haloscopes targeting sub-GHz axion masses. Measurements in the M1 magnet experiment at CERN are foreseen during the third long shutdown (LS3) of the CERN accelerator complex.
A cornerstone of the DQLF strategy is the implementation of quantum-limited linear amplifier detector (QLAD) chain, based on SQUIDs amplifiers. The use of SQUID, combined with high-quality factor superconducting cavities resilient to magnetic fields (such as those based on Niobium Titanium) aims to increase the sensitivity by orders of magnitude. The experience gained in the commissioning and operation of the M1 experiment will be instrumental for the next generation of large-scale haloscopes to be deployed in BabyIAXO.
In this contribution, we present the current status of the DQLF program, the construction of the prototype system, and the integration of quantum sensors, and outline the roadmap toward high-sensitivity searches for galactic axions, including the potential deployment of the experiment in the M1 magnet at CERN during LS3.
| Main Contribution topic | Instrumentation for Dark Matter searches |
|---|---|
| Secondary contribution topic | Axion / Sterile |