In the 1980s, particle physicists proposed the existence of a new type of particle, called an axion, to explain certain properties of quantum chromodynamics (QCD). If axions exist, they could make up the dark matter that appears to dominate the mass of the Universe. In recent years, there have been several experimental efforts to search for axions. The Axion Dark Matter Experiment (ADMX) is a leading effort in this field.
ADMX is searching for axions using a novel technique that converts them into detectable radio waves. This conversion occurs in a strong magnetic field and requires precise engineering. The experiment uses a superconducting magnet and sensitive microwave detectors to look foraxions converting into photons inside ADMX’s magnet bore. To date, ADMX is the most sensitive search for axions over a wide range of masses.
The experiment is located at the Department of Energy’s SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in California, USA. ADMX is led byPI Gerry Jaeger (Universityof Colorado) and Co-PI Leslie Rosenberg (SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory). The collaboration includes scientists from 19 institutions in North America, Europe and Asia.
Funding for ADMX comes from DOE/Office of Science, NSF, IBS-RGO in Korea, CEA/IRFU in France, BMBF in Germanyand private donations.