First results from a search for coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CE$\nu$NS) at a reactor site

TL;DR

This paper reports initial results from deploying a germanium detector near a reactor to measure coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering, achieving low thresholds and background reduction to explore new physics beyond the Standard Model.

Contribution

First experimental attempt to detect CE$ u$NS at a reactor using a low-noise germanium detector with improved background control.

Findings

Achieved a 0.2 keV$_{ee}$ detector threshold.

Characterized and reduced backgrounds during initial runs.

Derived new limits on light vector mediators beyond the Standard Model.

Abstract

The deployment of a low-noise 3 kg p-type point contact germanium detector at the Dresden-II power reactor, 8 meters from its 2.96 GW$_{th}$ core, is described. This location provides an unprecedented (anti)neutrino flux of 8.1$\times 10^{13} ~\bar{\nu_{e}}/$cm$^{2}$s. When combined with the 0.2 keV$_{ee}$ detector threshold achieved, a first measurement of CE$\nu$NS from a reactor source appears to be within reach. We report on the characterization and abatement of backgrounds during initial runs, deriving improved limits on extensions of the Standard Model involving a light vector mediator, from preliminary data.