Axion physics in a Josephson junction environment

We show that recent experiments based on Josephson junctions, SQUIDs, and coupled Josephson qubits have a cosmological interpretation in terms of axionic dark matter physics, in the sense that they allow for analogue simulation of early-universe axion physics. We discuss new experimental setups in which SQUID-like axionic interactions in a resonant Josephson junction environment can be tested, similar in nature to recent experiments that test for quantum entanglement of two coupled Josephson qubits. The parameter values relevant for early-universe axion cosmology are accessible with present day’s achievements in nanotechnology.

► The demonstration of analogy between Josephson junction and axion physics. ► Coincidence of the axion parameters with those of nanotechnological experiments. ► Discussion of SQUID-like interactions between axions and Josephson junctions. ► Suggestions of novel experiments to detect dark matter axions.