Solar $\gamma$-rays as a Complementary Probe of Dark Matter

Abstract

We show that observations of solar $\gamma$-rays offer a novel probe of dark matter in scenarios where interactions with the visible sector proceed via a long-lived mediator. As a proof of principle, we demonstrate that there exists a class of models which yield solar $\gamma$-ray fluxes observable with the next generation of $\gamma$-ray telescopes, while being allowed by a variety of current experimental constraints. The parameter space allowed by big bang nucleosynthesis and beam dump experiments naturally leads to mediator lifetimes sufficient to produce observable solar $\gamma$-ray signals. The model allows for solar $\gamma$-ray fluxes up to orders of magnitude larger compared to dwarf spheroidal galaxies, without reaching equilibrium between dark matter annihilation and capture rate. Our results suggest that solar $\gamma$-ray observations are complementary, and in some cases superior, to existing and future dark matter detection efforts.

15 pages + references, 7 figures, v3: Fermi-LAT and HERD sensitivity corrected, minor presentational improvements, matches journal version

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• First HAWC Observations of the Sun Constrain Steady TeV Gamma-Ray Emission
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• Dark Dwarfs: Dark Matter-Powered Sub-Stellar Objects Awaiting Discovery at the Galactic Center
• Prospects for the detection of Dark Matter with Long-lived Mediators in the Sun using the Southern Wide-field Gamma-ray Observatory
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• Constraints on dark matter scattering with long lived mediators from observations of the Sun with the Fermi Large Area Telescope
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