Robust limits from upcoming neutrino telescopes and implications on minimal dark matter models

Abstract

Experimental developments in neutrino telescopes are drastically improving their ability to constrain the annihilation cross-section of dark matter. In this paper, we employ an angular power spectrum analysis method to probe the galactic and extra-galactic dark matter signals. First we derive projections for a next generation of neutrino telescope that is inspired by KM3NeT. We emphasise that such analysis is much less sensitive to the choice of dark matter density profile. Remarkably, the projected sensitivity is improved by more than an order of magnitude with respect to the existing limits obtained by assuming the Burkert dark matter density profile describing the galactic halo. Second, we analyse minimal extensions to the Standard Model that will be maximally probed by the next generation of neutrino telescopes. As benchmark scenarios, we consider Dirac dark matter in s- and t-channel models with vector and scalar mediators. We follow a global approach by examining all relevant complementary experimental constraints. We find that neutrino telescopes will be able to competitively probe significant portions of parameter space. Interestingly, the anomaly-free L_μ-L_τ model can potentially be explored in regions where the relic abundance is achieved through freeze-out mechanism.

Dark Matter Phenomenology from Upcoming Neutrino Telescopes:

“…In this proceedings we have reviewed the work of ref. [1], which explores possible dark matter models that upcoming neutrino telescopes will probe. We have done this in a global way, considering also other searches which provide complimentary constraints.…”

“…In ref. [1] we consider simplified models for a Dirac dark matter ( ) mediated by a charged scalar ( ) or a vector boson ( ). For the scalar mediator, the branching ratio to neutrinos and charged leptons is 50% respectively.…”

“…In Ref. [1] we explored the dark matter models that these new experiments would competitively probe.…”

“…The choice made is Ref. [1] was to focus on the potential of KM3NeT, which comprises of a cubic kilometer of optical arrays, already in partial operation in the Mediterranean Sea. We made this choice because KM3NeT will have a superior angular resolution as well as having a good field of view to the galactic centre, but the results shown here can be readily applied to similar detectors.…”

“…Furthermore, we identify models that can potentially be explored where the relic abundance is achieved through thermal freeze-out. This proceeding is based on Ref [1].…”