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Caltech

High Energy Physics Seminar

Thursday, November 9, 2023
12:00pm to 1:00pm
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Online and In-Person Event
Constraints on WIMP Dark Matter Models with Astrophysical Observations
Mehrdad Phoroutan-Mehr, UC Riverside,

Special date and time

In this talk, I will discuss the constraints on dark matter properties with compact astrophysical objects. I will first present indirect detection constraints of self-interacting dark matter models using gamma-ray measurements from the M87 galaxy. This model predicts robust dark matter self-interactions, thermalizing the inner halo. Consequently, the density profile surrounding the supermassive black hole of M87 becomes shallower compared to that in the cold dark matter model. We find that the expected signal strength is below the current gamma-ray constraints for both s- and p-wave annihilation, even in the presence of Sommerfeld enhancement. Then, I will discuss dark matter searches with exoplanets. Dark matter particles can be captured by exoplanets, leading to observable signals, such as anomalous heating and potential destruction. Lastly, I will discuss constraints on inelastic dark matter from neutron stars, direct detection experiments, and the observed relic abundance of dark matter.

Talk is in 469 Lauritsen.
Contact [email protected] for Zoom link.