Multi-component dark matter and Galactic 511 keV $\gamma$-ray emission

TL;DR

This paper explores multi-component dark matter models within a dark U(1)_D extension of the Standard Model to explain the Galactic 511 keV gamma-ray line through positron production from dark matter decay and annihilation.

Contribution

It introduces and analyzes three novel dark matter scenarios involving dark U(1)_D, including a minimal gauge extension, a multi-component WIMP model, and a FIMP model with freeze-in and super-WIMP mechanisms.

Findings

Parameter space consistent with the 511 keV line and dark matter relic abundance identified.

Light vector dark matter can account for a small fraction of total dark matter.

Observational signatures discussed for future detection.

Abstract

We study multi-component dark matter scenarios and the Galactic 511 keV $\gamma$-ray emission line signal in the framework of a local, dark $U(1)_D$ extension of the Standard Model. A light vector dark matter particle associated with the dark $U(1)_D$ may decay and annihilate to electron-positron pairs. The produced positrons may in turn form positroniums that subsequently annihilate to two photons, accounting for the observed line signal of the Galactic 511 keV $\gamma$-ray emission. Three scenarios are investigated. First, we consider the minimal $U(1)_D$ extension where a dark gauge boson and a dark Higgs boson are newly introduced to the particle content. As a second scenario, we consider WIMP-type dark matter with the introduction of an extra dark fermion which, in addition to the dark gauge boson, may contribute to the dark matter relic abundance. It is thus a multi-component dark matter scenario with a UV-complete dark $U(1)_D$ symmetry. In particular, the vector dark matter may account for a small fraction of the total dark matter relic abundance. Finally, we consider the scenario where the dark matter particles are of the FIMP-type. In this case, both the light vector and fermion dark matter particles may be produced via the freeze-in and super-WIMP mechanisms. Considering theoretical and observational constraints, we explore the allowed parameter space where the Galactic 511 keV $\gamma$-ray line signal and the dark matter relic can both be explained. We also discuss possible observational signatures.