Improved analysis framework for axion dark matter searches

Abstract

In experiments searching for axionic dark matter, the use of the standard threshold-based data analysis discards valuable information. We present a Bayesian analysis framework that builds on an existing processing protocol [1] to extract more information from the data of coherent axion detectors such as operating haloscopes. The analysis avoids logical subtleties that accompany the standard analysis framework and enables greater experimental flexibility on future data runs. Performing this analysis on the existing data from the HAYSTAC experiment, we find improved constraints on the axion-photon coupling gγ while also identifying the most promising regions of parameter space within the 23.15-24.0 µeV mass range. A comparison with the standard threshold analysis suggests a 36% improvement in scan rate from our analysis, demonstrating the utility of this framework for future axion haloscope analyses.

Feebly-interacting particles: FIPs 2020 workshop report

“…More recently, HAYSTAC has reported the first axion DM search with squeezed photon states [527], which effectively allows to push the noise below the quantum limit [528], reaching sensitivity almost to the KSVZ coupling in the 16.96-17.28 μeV range. HAYSTAC is also pioneering analysis methodology [529,530] in this type of searches. The QUAX-aγ experiment in Frascati has also recently reported [531] a first result with a cavity resonating at an axion mass of 43 μeV, cooled down to 200 mK and read out with a Josephson parametric amplifier whose noise fluctuations are at the SQL, making this the axion haloscope having reached sensitivity to the QCD axion at the highest mass point.…”

Feebly-Interacting Particles:FIPs 2020 Workshop Report

“…More recently, HAYSTAC has reported the first axion DM search with squeezed photon states [522], which effectively allows to push the noise below the quantum limit [523], reaching sensitivity almost to the KSVZ coupling in the 16.96-17.28 µeV range. HAYSTAC is also pioneering analysis methodology [524,525] in this type of searches.…”

An introduction to axions and their detection

“…More recently, HAYSTAC has reported the first axion DM search with squeezed photon states [118], which effectively allows to push the noise limits below the quantum limit [106], reaching sensitivity almost to the KSVZ coupling in the 16.96-17.28 µeV range. HAYSTAC is also pioneering analysis methodology [119,120] in this type of searches. Another similar program is CULTASK, the flagship project of the recently created Center for Axion and Precision Physics (CAPP) in Korea.…”