2-3 pm: A new probe of supernova axion-like particles in neutrino water Cherenkov detectors

Particle Physics Theory seminar

2-3 pm: A new probe of supernova axion-like particles in neutrino water Cherenkov detectors

Event details

Title:

 A new probe of supernova axion-like particles in neutrino water Cherenkov detectors

Abstract: 

In this talk I will present a new potential signature of supernova axion-like particles (ALPs)  in neutrino water Cherenkov detectors. If ALPs couple to protons, then they can be detected through ALP absorption on free protons, ap→pγ, where the resulting photon has approximately the energy of the ALP. This new signature is complementary to the usual one from oxygen de-excitation, and can be exploited in various ways.

I will first argue that ALPs with MeV masses can be produced with semi-relativistic velocities in core-collapse supernovae, generating a diffuse galactic flux. Using SuperKamiokande data, new constraints on the ALP-proton coupling can be derived in regions that cooling bounds cannot probe. For lighter ALPs, the conditions for a diffuse flux fail. Nevertheless, they can still be looked for on individual (future) neighbouring supernovae. I will show that this new signature, combined with the one expected at 7 MeV from oxygen de-excitation, would allow us to disentangle ALP-neutron and ALP-proton couplings.

This talk is based on two recent articles (2412.09595, 2412.19890). 

About Particle Physics Theory seminars

The Particle Physics Theory seminar is a weekly series of talks reflecting the diverse interests of the group. Topics include analytic and numerical calculations based on the Standard Model of elementary particle physics, theories exploring new physics, as well as more formal developments in gauge theories and gravity..

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