Mechanical Sensors for Dark Matter Detection and Optomechanical Systems

Join a High Energy Physics seminar exploring the groundbreaking use of mechanical sensors in dark matter detection, presented by Yale's David Moore. Discover how optomechanical systems have transformed the detection of minute forces, reaching quantum measurement limits and enabling innovative searches for weakly coupled phenomena. Learn about a pioneering search using an optically levitated nanogram mass sensor that demonstrates superior sensitivity compared to large underground detectors for specific dark matter candidates. Explore how these sensors can track directional correlations with Earth's galactic motion, providing definitive confirmation of dark matter signals. Delve into topics including optical traps, spin cooling, kinematic detection, phenomenology, and the future applications of these sensors in precision tests for nuclear and particle physics, including investigations of sterile neutrinos and other fundamental measurements.