Axions - Motivation, limits and searches

Abstract

The axion solution of the strong CP problem provides a number of possible windows to physics beyond the standard model, notably in the form of searches for solar axions and for galactic axion dark matter, but in a broader context also inspires searches for axion-like particles in pure laboratory experiments. We briefly review the motivation for axions, astrophysical limits, their possible cosmological role, and current searches for axions and axion-like particles.

Comments: Contribution to IRGAC 06, Barcelona. New figure for allowed axion parameters, including hot dark matter limits