Capture of primordial black holes in extrasolar systems. Issue 8 (1st August 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lehmann, Benjamin V.; Webber, Ava; Ross, Olivia G.; Profumo, Stefano
• Is Part Of: Journal of cosmology and astroparticle physics. Volume 2022:Issue 8(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-08-01
• Subjects: dark matter theory -- primordial black holes; Cosmology -- Periodicals; Astrophysics -- Periodicals; 523.0105
• DOI: 10.1088/1475-7516/2022/08/079
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1475-7516

Abstract

Abstract: The vast datasets associated with extrasolar systems promise to offer sensitive probes of new physics in the near future. We consider the possibility that such systems may capture primordial black holes (PBHs) or other exotic compact objects, giving rise to unique observational signatures. We estimate the rate of captures by extrasolar systems, accounting for several distinct mechanisms. We find that the capture rate is negligible unless PBHs account for the entirety of dark matter in a narrow mass range just above the threshold of existing constraints from evaporation. In this scenario, luminous evaporating PBHs may be detectable by exoplanet searches.