Axion interferometry

TL;DR

This paper proposes a novel interferometry method using circular polarization to detect axion dark matter, capable of exploring new parameter space with existing technology.

Contribution

It introduces a new polarization-based interferometry technique for axion detection, extending the reach beyond current experimental constraints.

Findings

Interferometers can probe axion parameters beyond current limits.

The method requires only minor modifications to existing interferometers.

Current technology is sufficient for significant new axion searches.

Abstract

We propose using interferometry of circularly polarized light as a mechanism by which to test for axion dark matter. These interferometers differ from standard interferometers only by the addition of a few quarter waveplates to preserve the polarization of light upon reflection. We show that using current technology, interferometers can probe new regions of axion parameter space up to a couple orders of magnitude beyond current constraints.