MIMAC : A micro-tpc matrix for directional detection of dark matter

TL;DR

The MIMAC project develops a gaseous micro-TPC matrix for directional dark matter detection, enabling precise energy measurement and 3D track reconstruction to distinguish WIMP signals from background.

Contribution

It introduces a novel micro-TPC matrix using gases like 3He, CF4, and C4H10 for improved directional detection of dark matter particles.

Findings

Successful low-energy nuclear recoil measurements with a neutron field

Demonstrated potential for WIMP detection through directional signals

Achieved track reconstruction down to a few millimeters

Abstract

Directional detection of non-baryonic Dark Matter is a promising search strategy for discriminating WIMP events from background. However, this strategy requires both a precise measurement of the energy down to a few keV and 3D reconstruction of tracks down to a few mm. To achieve this goal, the MIMAC project has been developed. It is based on a gaseous micro-TPC matrix, filled with 3He, CF4 and/or C4H10. The first results on low energy nuclear recoils (1H and 19F) obtained with a low mono-energetic neutron field are presented. The discovery potential of this search strategy is discussed and illustrated by a realistic case accessible to MIMAC.