DAMA/LIBRA results and perspectives

TL;DR

The DAMA/LIBRA experiment has observed a significant annual modulation signal consistent with dark matter particles in the galactic halo, with ongoing phase 2 aiming to improve sensitivity.

Contribution

This paper reports the first phase results of DAMA/LIBRA confirming dark matter detection via annual modulation, and discusses perspectives for phase 2 improvements.

Findings

9.3 sigma evidence for dark matter particles

No systematic effects mimicking the signal

Ongoing phase 2 with increased sensitivity

Abstract

The DAMA/LIBRA experiment ($\sim$ 250 kg of highly radio-pure NaI(Tl)) is running deep underground at the Gran Sasso National Laboratory (LNGS) of the I.N.F.N. Here we briefly recall the results obtained in its first phase of measurements (DAMA/LIBRA--phase1, total exposure: 1.04 ton $\times$ yr). DAMA/LIBRA--phase1 and the former DAMA/NaI (cumulative exposure: $1.33$ ton $\times$ yr) give evidence at 9.3 $\sigma$ C.L. for the presence of DM particles in the galactic halo by exploiting the model-independent DM annual modulation signature. No systematic or side reaction able to mimic the exploited DM signature has been found or suggested by anyone over more than a decade. At present DAMA/LIBRA--phase2 is running with increased sensitivity.