3:30–4:30 pm Maria Goeppert-Mayer Lecture Hall
Next Generation Axion Dark Matter Searches
Andrew Sonnenschein, Fermilab
Host: Young-Kee Kim
In the early 1980s, axions and WIMPs were identified as promising dark matter candidates. The last forty years have seen a spectacularly successful experimental program attempting to discover the WIMPs, with sensitivity that has by now improved by many orders of magnitude compared to the earliest results. The parallel program to search for axions has made less progress and has reached the necessary sensitivity only over a very limited mass range. However, progress has recently accelerated, with the invention of many new axion detection techniques that may eventually provide a definitive answer to the question of whether the dark matter is made of axions. I will review some of these new developments with emphasis on opportunities for Fermilab and U. Chicago collaboration on the next generation of experiments, including ADMX- Extended Frequency Range and Broadband Reflector Experiment for Axion Detection (BREAD).
Dear Physics Community,
After thoughtful consideration, we have decided not to have indoor receptions following our weekly Physics colloquium. As a result, we will not have a reception for the remaining of the Autumn Quarter. Though we look forward to these gatherings, the health and safety of our community is our highest priority. We will continue to monitor the situation and, when possible, will resume our normal schedule.
Please note, our Physics Tea will continue on Tuesday/Thursday at 3pm in KPTC 206. We’ll offer tea, coffee and take-away snacks. We encourage you to bring your own mugs too!