Abstract from a recent research paper: We investigate dark matter (DM) in the context of the
minimal supersymmetric extension of the standard model (MSSM). We scan through
the MSSM parameter space and search for solutions that (a) are consistent with
the Higgs discovery and other collider searches; (b) satisfy the flavor
constraints from B physics; (c) give a DM candidate with the correct thermal
relic density; and (d) are allowed by the DM direct detection experiments. For
the surviving models with our parameter scan, we find the following features:
(1) The DM candidate is largely a Bino-like neutralino with non-zero but less than
20% Wino and Higgsino fractions; (2) The relic density requirement clearly pins
down the solutions from the Z and Higgs resonances (Z;h;H;A funnels) and co-annihilations; (3) Future direct search
experiments will likely fully cover the Z;h funnel regions, and H;A funnel regions as well except
for the "blind spots"; (4) Future indirect search experiments will be more
sensitive to the CP-odd Higgs exchange due to its s-wave nature; (5) The
branching fraction for the SM-like Higgs decay to DM can be as high as 10%,
while those from heavier Higgs decays to neutralinos and charginos can be as
high as 20%. We show that collider searches provide valuable information
complementary to what may be obtained from direct detections and astroparticle
observations. In particular, the Z - and h-funnels with a predicted low LSP mass should be accessible
at future colliders. Overall, the Higgs bosons may play an essential role as the portal to
the dark sector.
(Let's hope physics tomorrow is somehow simpler and less nutty than physics today. That's what I'm working on anyway.)
