Introduction to Hidden Particles:
Hidden particles, also known as dark sector particles, are hypothetical subatomic particles that do not interact with ordinary matter through the electromagnetic or strong nuclear forces. These elusive particles are a subject of intense interest in both particle physics and astrophysics, as they are potential candidates for dark matterโthe mysterious, non-luminous substance that makes up a significant portion of the universe. ๐๐
Axions and Axion-Like Particles (ALPs):
Explore the theory and experimental searches for axions and ALPs, ultra-light and weakly interacting particles that are prime candidates for dark matter. Understand how these searches are conducted in laboratory experiments and astrophysical observations. ๐ญ๐
Hidden Sector Particles:
Investigate the concept of hidden sectors, which consist of particles beyond the Standard Model that do not interact with known particles through electromagnetic or strong forces. Explore their potential role in dark matter and their implications for particle physics. ๐ณ๏ธ๐
Direct Dark Matter Detection:
Delve into the techniques and experiments designed to directly detect dark matter particles as they interact with detectors on Earth. Understand the challenges and recent advancements in this quest to uncover hidden particles. ๐ก๐
Indirect Dark Matter Detection:
Focus on indirect methods of detecting dark matter, such as studying cosmic rays and gamma-ray emissions, which can provide indirect evidence of hidden particle interactions. Explore the astrophysical signatures of dark matter candidates. ๐ ๐
Collider Searches:
Examine the efforts to search for hidden particles at high-energy particle colliders like the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and future experiments, where high-energy collisions may produce and reveal previously hidden particles. ๐๐ฌ