Separating astrophysical sources from indirect dark matter signals

TL;DR

This paper reviews methods to improve the detection of dark matter signals in gamma-ray data by combining spectral and angular analysis with better background characterization, focusing on the Inner Galaxy and isotropic gamma-ray background.

Contribution

It highlights the complementary use of spectral/angular analysis and background modeling to enhance indirect dark matter searches in gamma-ray observations.

Findings

Uncertainties in background properties limit search sensitivity.

Combining analysis methods can improve detection robustness.

Better background characterization enhances signal identification.

Abstract

Indirect searches for products of dark matter annihilation and decay face the challenge of identifying an uncertain and subdominant signal in the presence of uncertain backgrounds. Two valuable approaches to this problem are (1) using analysis methods which take advantage of different features in the energy spectrum and angular distribution of the signal and backgrounds, and (2) more accurate characterization of backgrounds, which allows for more robust identification of possible signals. These two approaches are complementary and can be significantly strengthened when used together. I review the status of indirect searches with gamma rays using two promising targets, the Inner Galaxy and the Isotropic Gamma-Ray Background. For both targets, uncertainties in the properties of backgrounds is a major limitation to the sensitivity of indirect searches. I then highlight approaches which can enhance the sensitivity of indirect searches using these targets.