Professor Jocelyn Monroe

Abstract:

Neutrino coherent scattering cross sections can be as large as 10-39cm2, while current dark matter experiments have sensitivities to WIMP coherent scattering cross sections 5 orders of magnitude smaller; future experiments plan to have sensitivities to cross sections as small as 10-48cm2. With large target masses and few keV recoil energy detection thresholds, neutral current coherent scattering of solar neutrinos becomes an irreducible background in dark matter searches. In the current zero-background analysis paradigm, neutrino coherent scattering will limit the achievable sensitivity to dark matter scattering cross sections, at the level of 10-46cm2. © 2007 The American Physical Society.

Abstract:

Neutrino oscillations have been established in solar and atmospheric neutrinos, but a third signal from the LSND experiment is incompatible with three Standard Model neutrinos. The MiniBooNE experiment can confirm or refute the LSND oscillation signal with 1 × 10²¹ protons on target. While working towards the oscillation result, MiniBooNE will accumulate more than 1 × 10⁶ neutrino interactions in the 0 to 2 GeV range which will greatly increase the world's knowledge of neutrino cross sections in this energy regime. Preliminary results on the MiniBooNE νμ charged current quasi-elastic analysis are presented and compared to the NUANCE, NEUT, and NEUGEN cross section Monte Carlos. © 2004 Published by Elsevier B.V.

Abstract:

The Fermilab particle physics program has recently expanded to include the MiniBooNE experiment in addition to the RunII program. As a result, the effective and reliable performance of the Fermilab Booster has become crucial to the lab. The Booster is an 8 GeV proton synchrotron and is a key element of the Fermilab accelerator chain. It must meet increasing demands for proton intensity and high repetition rates. One important requirement placed on the machine is low radiation levels. These levels are highly correlated with losses in the machine, and can limit Booster production. We will describe how a system of ramped dipole corrector magnets are being used to maintain orbital position throughout the acceleration cycle in order to minimize beam losses, maximize proton intensity, and maintain the required repetition rate.

Abstract:

The MiniBooNE neutrino experiment is projected to take more intensity in a single year than was delivered during the seventeen years of running the Fixed Target Program. The experiment will require almost continuous running (18,000 pulses/hour) at full intensity (5E12 protons per pulse). In order to safely handle this intensity various measures have been instituted. The design of the beamline ensures sufficient clearance between the beam and apertures. A MiniBooNE Beam Permit System has been installed that is able to check various digital and analogue information against nominal values on a pulse by pulse basis. An automated total beam loss monitoring system (electronic berm) measures any beam loss between the beginning and end of the line. An automated correction system (Autotune) finds and corrects minor beam wandering. A description of the beamline design and relevant instrumentation is given.