Particle Physics Seminar
"The Running CERN Axion Helioscope CAST"
Konstantin Zioutas, CERN
11:00 AM, Small Seminar Room, Bldg. 510

 

Abstract

 

The theoretical and astrophysical motivation behind the celebrated 
axions will be introduced. The Primakoff effect borrowed from the 
traditional particle physics drives the production and detection of 
(solar) axions. The working principle of CAST, à la Sikivie (1983) 
& van Bibber et al. (1989), is the same as that of the pioneering 
helioscope in BNL some 20 years ago. Eversince we witness the birth 
of axion astrophysics. The ongoing CAST 2nd phase with refraction 
gas in the magnetic pipes of the recycled LHC test magnet will be 
presented. As a 3rd generation telescope, CAST's performance has 
been optimised considerably as it can be seen from the obtained 
first results. If time allows it, the inspiring question will be 
followed as to whether the CAST conceptual design is already at 
work --even fine tuned-- in the ubiquitous solar magnetic fields.