Exotic Compact Objects: The Dark White Dwarf*

Dissipative dark matter models provide a solution to several puzzles in cosmology, like the cusp/core discrepancy and the missing satellites problem, while opening up the possibility for exotic compact object formation. These objects, ranging from dark black holes down to dark white dwarfs, have the potential for unique characteristics that set them apart from their baryonic counterparts. Furthermore, gravitational wave observations of their mergers may provide the only direct window on a potentially entirely hidden sector. We present here an introduction to dark white dwarfs, with a focus on how dark microphysics drive macroscopic characteristics distinct from ordinary, astrophysical compact objects. Further, we demonstrate that dark white dwarf mergers are detectable by current or planned gravitational observatories across a vast region of the parameter space considered here, providing a compelling reason to search for these objects.