Speaker
Description
Axion-like particles (ALPs) represent well-motivated candidates for dark matter. However, searching for ALPs using very-high-energy (VHE) gamma-ray observations requires a multidisciplinary approach that is seldom addressed comprehensively in a single reference. In this work, we present a practical guide for researchers entering the field, outlining the essential steps to develop a robust analysis pipeline. We describe the core components of the modeling process, including the characterization of astrophysical magnetic fields, electron densities, and the numerical simulation of photon–ALP mixing using the gammaALPs code. We also discuss practical aspects of data handling, comparing the use of publicly available spectral data with full analyses based on collaboration-level raw data. Finally, we provide an overview of the standard statistical methods used to derive physical constraints on ALP parameters. This work aims to offer a clear and accessible starting point for navigating the different stages of ALP phenomenology, from source modeling to the derivation of experimental limits.
This work was supported by UNAM-PAPIIT IG100726 and SECIHTI LNC-2023-117