The CRESST experiment towards the next generation of sub GeV direct dark matter detection

Journal article : Review

Direct detection experiments have established the most stringent constraints on potential interactions between particle candidates for relic, thermal dark matter and Standard Model particles. To surpass current exclusion limits a new generation of experiments is being developed. The upcoming upgrade of the CRESST experiment will incorporate O(100) detectors with different masses ranging from ~2 g to ~24 g, aiming to achieve unprecedented sensitivity to sub-GeV dark matter particles with a focus on spin-independent dark matter-nucleus scattering. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the planned upgrade, detailed experimental strategies, anticipated challenges, and projected sensitivities. Approaches to address and mitigate low-energy excess backgrounds – a key limitation in previous and current sub-GeV dark matter searches – are also discussed. In addition, a long-term roadmap for the next decade is outlined, including other potential scientific applications.

Authors: Angloher, G; Banik, S; Bento, A; Bertolini, A; Breier, R

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: Nature Research
• Journal: Communications Physics
• Volume: 9
• Issue: 1
• Article number: 163
• Publication date: 2026-05-12
• Acceptance date: 2025-12-17
• DOI: 10.1038/s42005-025-02476-5
• EISSN: 2399-3650
• ISSN: 2399-3650
• Language: English
• Subtype: Review