Capture of dark matter by the Solar System. Simple estimates

TL;DR

This paper provides simple estimates for how dark matter from the galaxy can be gravitationally captured by the Solar System, focusing on the Sun, planets, and dark matter particles, and discusses implications for local dark matter density.

Contribution

It introduces straightforward calculations for dark matter capture cross-section and local density near Earth, enhancing understanding of dark matter distribution in the Solar System.

Findings

Estimated capture cross-section for dark matter by the Solar System

Predicted density and velocity distribution of captured dark matter near Earth

Implications for local dark matter detection and distribution

Abstract

We consider the capture of galactic dark matter by the Solar System, due to the gravitational three-body interaction of the Sun, a planet, and a dark matter particle. Simple estimates are presented for the capture cross-section, as well as for density and velocity distribution of captured dark matter particles close to the Earth.