  This proceedings' contribution explores the rationale behind the axion as a
resolution to the strong CP puzzle. It outlines various benchmark axion models
and examines their implications, focusing on two key aspects: (i) the axion's
interactions with the Standard Model particles, and (ii) its potential role as
dark matter. Additionally, it provides an overview of the discovery prospects
associated with ongoing and future axion experiments. These efforts span from
laboratory-based endeavors aimed at directly producing and detecting axions to
searches for solar axions, and finally, to the direct detection of axion dark
matter.
