Researchers Study Dark Matter Conversion Signals in Earth's Ionosphere ei2a Technology News

Dark matter particles may produce detectable signals in Earth's ionosphere, researchers suggest 574s1z

Written by Gadgets 360 Staff | Updated: 14 January 2025 20:00 IST

Researchers Study Dark Matter Conversion Signals in Earth's Ionosphere

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons o1y2q

Dark matter have gained momentum with a new approach exploring its potential

Highlights

Researchers explore ionosphere for dark matter detection signals
Axions and dark photons may convert to radio waves in plasma
Cost-effective experiments planned to validate the findings

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Efforts to unravel the mysteries of photons could convert into low-frequency radio waves in the ionosphere, offering a novel and cost-effective method to detect dark matter through ground-based experiments.

Predicted Mechanism and Experimental Feasibility 682x4p

According to the study published in Physical Review Letters, this method builds on the resonant conversion principle. Carl Beadle, a researcher at the University of Geneva and lead author of the study, explained to phys.org, that such conversions have been previously considered in astrophysical environments, including neutron stars and planetary systems. Beadle and his colleagues focused on the ionosphere, a well-studied plasma layer surrounding Earth, for its potential to generate signals under specific conditions.

In these models, the mass of dark matter particles aligns with the plasma frequency—a characteristic tied to electron density in the ionosphere. This resonance could produce detectable photons, allowing researchers to test the theory using small dipole antennas. The team's calculations ed for signal attenuation factors, demonstrating the viability of detecting dark matter axions or dark photons.

Scientists have detected Earth's ambipolar electric field for the first time

Collaborative Efforts to Validate Findings 2f4s3j

Plans for experimental validation are underway. Beadle emphasized the cost-effective nature of the proposed method and its ability to explore previously unexamined parameters of dark matter. The research group is working with experimental physicists to analyze existing data and construct suitable detection systems.

The study offers a new direction in dark matter exploration, leveraging the Earth's natural plasma environment. By using accessible technology, the approach could provide critical insights into dark matter's elusive properties, potentially reshaping future searches.

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