Bayes and present dark matter direct search status

TL;DR

This paper applies Bayesian inference to analyze recent dark matter direct detection results, focusing on experimental compatibility, low-mass WIMPs, and astrophysical uncertainties.

Contribution

It introduces a Bayesian framework to interpret dark matter detection data, accounting for systematics, backgrounds, and astrophysical uncertainties, especially in the low-mass region.

Findings

Bayesian methods effectively marginalize over experimental uncertainties.

Results highlight tensions and compatibilities among different experiments.

Astrophysical uncertainties significantly affect WIMP parameter space.

Abstract

Recently there has been a huge activity in the dark matter direct detection field, with the report of an excess from CoGeNT and CRESST along with the annual modulated signal of DAMA/Libra and the strong exclusion bound from XENON100. We analyse these results within the framework of Bayesian inference and evidence. Indeed Bayesian methods are well suited for marginalizing over experimental systematics and background. We present the results for spin-independent interaction on nucleus with particular attention to the low dark matter mass region and the compatibility between experiments. In the same vein we also investigate the impact of astrophysical uncertainties on the WIMP preferred parameter space within the class of isotropic dark matter velocity distributions.