WISPDMX: A haloscope for WISP Dark Matter between 0.8-2 $\mu$eV

TL;DR

WISPDMX is a pioneering microwave cavity experiment designed to directly detect WISP dark matter particles, such as axions and hidden photons, in the 0.8-2.0 μeV mass range, with initial results and ongoing improvements.

Contribution

First direct search experiment probing 0.8-2.0 μeV WISP dark matter particles using a microwave cavity approach.

Findings

Completed initial measurements at resonant frequencies.

Preparing second stage targeting 60% of the mass range.

Established experimental feasibility for WISP detection in this range.

Abstract

Weakly interactive slim particles (WISPs), including the QCD axion, axion-like particles (ALPs), and hidden photons, are considered to be strong candidates for the dark matter carrier particle. The microwave cavity experiment WISPDMX is the first direct WISP dark matter search experiment probing the particle masses in the 0.8-2.0 $\mu$eV range. The first stage of WISPDMX measurements has been completed at nominal resonant frequencies of the cavity. The second stage of WISPDMX is presently being prepared, targeting hidden photons and axions within 60\% of the entire 0.8-2.0 $\mu$eV mass range.