Astro Dark Large & Small

Introduction

The Standard Model (SM) of particle physics is a successful, extremely well-verified theory. Nevertheless, the SM appears far from being complete. There are still many theoretical and experimental open questions: the strong-CP problem, the origin of neutrino masses, the nature of dark energy, and dark matter.

Need for Physics Beyond the Standard Model

The need for physics beyond the Standard Model (BSM) is undeniable, but the question is: how and where will we find it?

Project Aim

The aim of the AstroDarkLS project is to try to discover or falsify important theoretical models of light particles, such as axions and dark photons, considering their impact in astrophysical and cosmological systems which were never considered in depth by the particle physics community.

Main Themes

The project is organised around three main themes, spanning various length scales in the universe:

1. The use of stars and astrophysical objects to look for new physics.
2. The impact of motivated BSM models on star formation.
3. The investigation of electromagnetic signals both from galaxies and the interstellar medium between them.

Groundbreaking Objectives

For each theme, groundbreaking objectives are identified, such as:

• The first simulation of Supernovae radiative transport including axions.
• The first public code for star formation in the presence of light physics.
• The innovative use of line intensity mapping (LIM) to detect dark matter decay or annihilation into photons.

Interdisciplinary Approach

All the objectives are located at the interface between particle physics, astrophysics, and cosmology, building on the unique experience of the PI in these various disciplines and in perfect alignment with the European Commission vision.