Sterile neutrino dark matter in a U(1) extension of the standard model

We explore the parameter space of a U(1) extension of the standard model - also called the super-weak model - from the point of view of explaining the observed dark matter energy density in the Universe. The new particle spectrum contains a complex scalar singlet and three right-handed neutrinos, among which the lightest one is the dark matter candidate. We explore both freeze-in and freeze-out mechanisms of dark matter production. In both cases, we find regions in the plane of the super-weak coupling vs. the mass of the new gauge boson that are not excluded by current experimental constraints. These regions are distinct and the one for freeze-out will be explored in searches for neutral gauge boson in the near future. JCAP01(2022)035

Automated summary

This study explores the parameter space of a U(1) extension of the standard model, known as the super-weak model, in order to explain the observed dark matter energy density. The results reveal regions in the super-weak coupling vs. the mass of the new gauge boson plane that are not excluded by current experimental constraints, indicating the importance of further investigation into the freeze-out mechanism for dark matter production.