  We propose a new low-threshold direct-detection concept for dark matter and
for coherent nuclear scattering of solar neutrinos, based on the dissociation
of atoms and subsequent creation of color center type defects within a lattice.
The novelty in our approach lies in its ability to detect single defects in a
macroscopic bulk of material. This class of experiments features ultra-low
energy thresholds which allows for the probing of dark matter as light as
$\mathcal{O}(10)$ MeV through nuclear scattering. Another feature of defect
creation in crystals is directional information, which presents as a
spectacular signal and a handle on background reduction in the form of daily
modulation of the interaction rate. We discuss the envisioned setup and
detection technique, as well as background reduction. We further calculate the
expected rates for dark matter and solar neutrinos in two example crystals for
which available data exists, demonstrating the prospective sensitivity of such
experiments.
