The DRIFT-II Directional Dark Matter Detector

Abstract

The DRIFT-II detector is a negative ion time projection chamber (NITPC) with the ability to measure nuclear recoils for the purpose of detecting dark matter, reconstruct three dimensional tracks of nuclear recoils, and has the potential to set competitive limits. The directional information provides powerful background discrimination and a means to robustly verify a dark matter signal as extraterrestrial in origin. DRIFT-II is designed to search for an anisotropic distribution of nuclear recoils as well as a daily modulation due to the rotation of the Earth. It is located in the Boulby Mine on the north-east coast of England at a depth of 1100 m (3300 m.w.e).