Quantum dual-path interferometry scheme for axion dark matter searches

TL;DR

This paper proposes a quantum dual-path interferometry scheme for axion dark matter detection, enhancing sensitivity and reducing scanning time by leveraging quantum effects in cavity experiments.

Contribution

It introduces a quantum-level scheme using dual-path interferometry to improve axion detection sensitivity and efficiency over classical methods.

Findings

Quantum enhancement of axion-photon conversion rate by π/2

Single photons emitted with temporal separation in the cavity

Potential for faster axion signal scanning and improved coupling sensitivity

Abstract

Exploring the mysterious dark matter is a key quest in modern physics. Currently, detecting axions, a hypothetical particle proposed as a primary component of dark matter, remains a significant challenge due to their weakly interacting nature. Here we show at quantum level that in a cavity permeated by a magnetic field, the single axion-photon conversion rate is enhanced by the cavity quality factor and is quantitatively larger than the classical result by $\pi/2$. The axion cavity can be considered a quantum device emitting single photons with temporal separations. This differs from the classical picture and reveals a possibility for the axion cavity experiment to handle the signal sensitivity at the quantum level, e.g., a dual path quantum interferometry with cross-power and second-order correlation measurements. This scheme would greatly reduce the signal scanning time and improve the sensitivity of the axion-photon coupling, potentially leading to the direct observation of axions.