From DAMA/NaI to DAMA/LIBRA and beyond

Abstract

The low background DAMA/NaI experiment (≃ 100 kg highly radiopure NaI(T1)) at the Gran Sasso National Laboratory of the I.N.F.N. had the unique feature to effectively investigate the presence of Dark Matter particle in the galactic halo by exploiting the model independent annual modulation signature. Data collected over seven annual cycles for a total exposure of ≃ 1.1 × 105 kg × day have pointed out at 6.3 σ C.L. a positive result; corollary model dependent quests for the candidate particle have also been carried out in several of the many possible scenarios. At present the second generation DAMA/LIBRA set-up (≃ 250 kg highly radiopure NaI(T1)) is in operation. R&D's towards a possible ultimate radiopurity 1 ton NaI(T1) experiment are also in progress.