"Dark Matter Detection in the Southern Hemisphere"

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Direct detection experiments are crucial in the search for dark matter, particularly targeting elusive particles such as weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPs), axions, and axion-like particles (ALPs). To detect WIMP-like particles, experiments use detectors placed deep underground, shielding them from cosmic radiation and background noise to enhance sensitivity to rare interactions that could signal dark matter's presence. In contrast, ALP detection relies on highly sensitive instruments, such as resonant cavities and superconducting sensors, to detect axion-photon interactions. This talk will provide an overview of the dark matter direct detection field, emphasizing the Australian role, supported by the ARC Centre of Excellence for Dark Matter Particle Physics (CDM). The Southern Hemisphere, with Australia’s Stawell Underground Physics Laboratory (SUPL), offers a unique platform for dark matter searches. Notably, the SABRE South experiment, operating in tandem with its Northern Hemisphere counterpart, aims to validate dark matter signatures, including seasonal modulation. In a more recent development, a new facility at SUPL (CELLAR) will house a dilution refrigerator, which can be used for dark matter detector R&D and low-mass dark matter experiments. In addition to WIMP searches, Australia’s dark matter direct detection efforts focus on axion-photon interactions, with ongoing experiments like ADMX and ORGAN, as well as other innovative techniques, being conducted through both international and Australian-based collaborations. Finally, I will discuss the future of dark matter detection technologies and experiments, focusing on new technologies. I will emphasize where Australia may have strategic advantage in future and upcoming experiments.