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Synchrotron self-Compton process for constraining sub-GeV dark matter in Omega Centauri via SKA

Guan-Sen Wang1,2, Bing-Yu Su1,*, Yang Yu1,2, Bo Zhang1,2, and Lei Feng1,2,†

  • *Contact author: bysu@pmo.ac.cn
  • †Contact author: fenglei@pmo.ac.cn
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Phys. Rev. D 114, 043022 – Published 11 August, 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/99qh-v2fy

Abstract

The search for the particle identity of dark matter (DM) continues to be a primary objective in modern physics. In this field, the sub-GeV mass range of DM detection remains a crucial yet challenging window. We investigate synchrotron self-Compton (SSC) emission from electrons and positrons produced by MeV-scale DM annihilation as a novel indirect detection channel. Focusing on the globular cluster Omega Centauri and the sensitivity of the Square Kilometre Array, we derive constraints on the annihilation cross section reaching ⟨σv⟩∼10−29  cm3 s−1 in the tens-of-MeV range. Furthermore, constraints can reach below ⟨σv⟩∼10−30  cm3 s−1 under favorable parameter choices. Although the derived limits depend on the uncertain propagation parameters, the SSC channel remains competitive with existing indirect constraints over a representative range of astrophysical assumptions, establishing SSC emission as a promising probe of sub-GeV DM.

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Phys. Rev. D 114, 043022– Published 11 August, 2026
  • Received 10 February 2026
  • Accepted 10 July 2026
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