Dark matter axion search using a Josephson Traveling wave parametric amplifier

Area of Science:

• * Experimental Particle Physics
• * Cosmology
• * Quantum Electronics

Background:

• * Axion dark matter searches are crucial for understanding the universe's composition.
• * Previous searches have been limited by detector sensitivity and bandwidth.
• * Parametric amplifiers offer potential for improved sensitivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To implement and test a Josephson Traveling Wave Parametric Amplifier (JTWPA) in an axion dark matter experiment.
• * To assess the JTWPA's sensitivity to axion-like particle dark matter.
• * To evaluate the JTWPA's suitability for broadband axion detection.

Main Methods:

• * Integration of a JTWPA into an existing axion dark matter search apparatus.
• * Operation of the JTWPA within a 0.56-l resonant cavity.
• * Tuning the cavity's resonant frequency to scan for axion signals over a specific microwave range.

Main Results:

• * The JTWPA achieved sensitivity to axion-like particle dark matter with couplings above 10⁻¹³ Ge V⁻¹.
• * The search focused on axion masses around 19.84 µeV, corresponding to frequencies of 4796.7-4799.5 MHz.
• * The JTWPA demonstrated high gain over a 3 GHz bandwidth.

Conclusions:

• * The JTWPA represents a significant advancement for axion dark matter detection.
• * Its wide bandwidth capability is promising for future broadband axion searches.
• * This implementation paves the way for more sensitive and comprehensive dark matter investigations.