Speaker
Description
Beyond the Standard Model Long-Lived Particles (LLPs) appear in many theoretical frameworks that address fundamental questions such as the hierarchy problem, dark matter, neutrino masses, and the baryon asymmetry of the universe. The LHC may in fact be producing copious numbers of neutral LLPs with masses above a GeV, only to have these sneaky particles escape the main detectors without being spotted. To fill this gap, we have proposed the MATHUSLA detector (MAssive Timing Hodoscope for Ultra-Stable neutraL pArticles), which would be constructed on the surface above CMS and would take data during High-Luminosity LHC operations. The detector would be composed of several layers of solid plastic scintillator, with wavelength-shifting fibers connected to silicon photomultipliers, monitoring an empty air-filled decay volume. The Conceptual Design Report (CDR) published last year sets out a benchmark geometry of 40m x 40m x 25m, with a modular detector construction scheme that would allow data collection to begin as soon as the first of 16 modules is installed. This talk will summarize the results of more detailed studies conducted by the Canadian MATHUSLA team since the CDR, with the aim of building the first 4 modules (20m x 20m x 25m) in Canadian facilities. These studies include higher-statistics simulations of rare Standard Model backgrounds, FPGA implementation of trigger algorithms that would permit an “LLP trigger” to be sent to CMS, and "test stands" at the University of Victoria and the University of Toronto.
| Keyword-1 | Long-Lived Particles |
|---|---|
| Keyword-2 | MATHUSLA Detector |