Effective field theory interpretation of searches for dark matter annihilation in the Sun with the IceCube Neutrino Observatory

TL;DR

This paper interprets IceCube neutrino search results for dark matter annihilation in the Sun using an effective field theory framework, deriving limits on interaction operators and comparing with other detection methods.

Contribution

It provides a model-independent EFT interpretation of IceCube data, linking dark matter-proton interactions to new physics models and astrophysical uncertainties.

Findings

Constraints on spin-dependent scattering cross-sections.

Limits on effective couplings and mediator masses.

Complementarity with relic density and collider searches.

Abstract

We present a model-independent interpretation of searches for dark matter annihilation in the Sun using an effective field theory approach. We identify a set of effective operators contributing to spin-dependent scattering of dark matter with protons in the non-relativistic limit and explore simple new physics models which would give rise to such operators. Using the limits on the spin-dependent scattering cross-section set by the IceCube collaboration in their search for dark matter annihilation in the Sun, we derive limits on effective couplings and corresponding masses of mediating particles. We show that the effective field theory interpretation of the IceCube searches provides constraints on dark matter complementary to those from relic density observations and searches at the LHC. Finally, we discuss the impact of astrophysical uncertainties on our results.