The hunt for dark photons intensifies with MADMAX 🔭

The quest for dark matter has mobilized scientists for decades. Two hypothetical particles, axions and dark photons (see chapter at the end of the article), could be its constituents.


The MADMAX experiment uses a sophisticated instrument to attempt to detect these particles. A recent study in Physical Review Letters presents the first results obtained with a prototype. The main objective is to confirm the detector's efficiency in the search for dark matter.

Dark photons are considered massive versions of ordinary photons. Their conversion into detectable photons is at the heart of the MADMAX experiment. The device uses a stack of dielectric disks to amplify this phenomenon.

Unlike previous instruments, the MADMAX prototype allows exploration of higher frequencies. This technical breakthrough opens new perspectives in the search for dark matter. The prototype's sensitivity already exceeds that of previous experiments. Researchers plan to improve the device by reducing thermal noise and increasing the resonator's size.

The next steps include using an intense magnetic field. This configuration will allow simultaneous searches for axions and dark photons. MADMAX could thus provide crucial answers about the nature of dark matter. Researchers also plan to cool the entire setup to 4 K. This measure will significantly reduce thermal noise, increasing detection chances. The team is working on improvements to extend the range of masses explored.

The MADMAX experiment represents an innovative approach in the quest for dark matter. Its results could constrain the possible masses of axions and dark photons. This research opens new avenues for understanding the invisible Universe.

What is a dark photon?

Dark photons are hypothetical particles proposed as candidates for dark matter. They would be similar to ordinary photons but would possess mass. This characteristic would make them invisible to traditional detectors.

Their existence could explain some anomalies observed in the Universe. Unlike normal photons, they would not interact with ordinary matter in the same way. This makes them extremely difficult to detect.

Experiments like MADMAX aim to convert dark photons into detectable photons. This process relies on specific conditions, such as the presence of an intense electromagnetic field. Successfully achieving this conversion would be a major breakthrough.

Detecting dark photons could revolutionize our understanding of dark matter. It would provide clues about the composition of the invisible Universe. Research continues to confirm or disprove their existence.