DarkNESS: A skipper-CCD NanoSatellite for Dark Matter Searches

TL;DR

DarkNESS is a pioneering nanosatellite mission deploying skipper-CCD sensors in space to search for dark matter signatures, aiming to enhance detection sensitivity for low-energy interactions and X-ray emissions from decaying dark matter.

Contribution

This paper introduces the first space deployment of skipper-CCD technology for dark matter detection, demonstrating its potential for low-noise, high-sensitivity measurements in orbit.

Findings

Successful laboratory validation of the skipper-CCD instrument

Secured launch opportunity through Firefly Aerospace's DREAM 2.0 program

First use of skipper-CCDs in space for dark matter searches

Abstract

The Dark matter Nanosatellite Equipped with Skipper Sensors (DarkNESS) deploys a recently developed skipper-CCD architecture with sub-electron readout noise in low Earth orbit (LEO) to investigate potential signatures of dark matter (DM). The mission addresses two interaction channels: electron recoils from strongly interacting sub-GeV DM and X-rays produced through decaying DM. Orbital observations avoid attenuation that limits ground-based measurements, extending sensitivity reach for both channels. The mission proceeds toward launch following laboratory validation of the instrument. A launch opportunity has been secured through Firefly Aerospace's DREAM 2.0 program, awarded to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC). This will constitute the first use of skipper-CCDs in space and evaluate their suitability for low-noise X-ray and single-photon detection in future space observatories.