Speaker
Description
With much of the dark matter candidate parameter space still unexplored, novel detection technologies enable searches for previously inaccessible viable candidates. In particular, methods which exploit directional discrimination will allow for unambiguous confirmation of a galactic signal. Nano- and micro-particles, cooled and levitated in isolation within high vacuum, open up the potential for extremely sensitive measurements of weak forces at both short and long range. We present the first results from our levitated optomechanical direct dark matter experiment, which is capable of resolving collisions in all three dimensions. It utilises levitated nanoparticles (10^-18 kg) for composite dark matter searches in the 10 MeV – 10 GeV mass range. We describe the current experimental apparatus and methodology used in our search, and present sensitivity projections competitive with world-leading dark matter constraints, informed by an initial characterisation of relevant backgrounds. We also outline planned improvements and alternative experimental setups which will aid in these searches into unexplored dark matter parameter space.
