Detectability of axion-like dark matter for different time-delay interferometry combinations in space-based gravitational wave detectors

Key findings from this study

This research indicates that:

• Monitor and Beacon combinations provide optimal sensitivity at high frequencies, achieving g_aγ ≈ 10^-13 GeV^-1
• Sagnac configuration offers superior sensitivity in the low-frequency regime
• ASTROD-GW can detect axion-like dark matter masses down to 10^-20 eV

Overview

Axion-like dark matter particles would induce birefringence effects in laser links between spacecraft in space-based gravitational wave detectors, altering polarization states. Current detector designs lack sensitivity to polarization angle variations. Wave plate modifications enable detection of axion-induced birefringence. This study evaluates detection sensitivities across three time-delay interferometry combinations for space-based detectors.

Methods and approach

The authors calculated and compared sensitivities of space-based detectors using three time-delay interferometry combinations: Monitor, Beacon, and Relay. Analysis covered both high-frequency and low-frequency response ranges. The study evaluated sensitivity performance of the ASTROD-GW configuration across the mass range of axion-like dark matter candidates.

Results

Monitor and Beacon combinations achieve superior sensitivity in the high-frequency range, with optimal sensitivity reaching g_aγ ≈ 10^-13 GeV^-1. The Sagnac combination demonstrates superior performance in the low-frequency range. ASTROD-GW can extend detection coverage to axion-like dark matter masses as low as 10^-20 eV, providing broadband sensitivity across complementary frequency bands.

Implications

Different time-delay interferometry combinations exhibit distinct frequency-dependent sensitivity characteristics. This frequency-dependent performance enables comprehensive coverage of the axion-like dark matter parameter space by utilizing multiple configurations. The extended mass range detection capability of ASTROD-GW enhances the experimental reach for ultralight dark matter candidates.

Scope and limitations

This summary is based on the study abstract and available metadata. It does not include a full analysis of the complete paper, supplementary materials, or underlying datasets unless explicitly stated. Findings should be interpreted in the context of the original publication.