Light neutralinos and WIMP direct searches

Abstract

The predictions of our previous analysis about possible low-mass ${(m}_{\ensuremath{\chi}}\ensuremath{\lesssim}50\mathrm{GeV})$ relic neutralinos are discussed in the light of some recent results from WIMP direct detection experiments. It is proved that these light neutralinos are quite compatible with the new annual-modulation data of the DAMA Collaboration; our theoretical predictions are also compared with the upper bounds of the CDMS and EDELWEISS Collaborations.