The Revival of (0,2) Linear Sigma Models

TL;DR

This paper reviews recent advances in linear sigma model techniques to better understand the worldsheet description of heterotic string compactifications, which are important for realistic vacua and mathematical insights.

Contribution

It introduces new linear sigma model methods to explore the worldsheet aspects of heterotic string compactifications, complementing existing supergravity understanding.

Findings

Development of linear sigma models for heterotic compactifications

Enhanced understanding of worldsheet descriptions

Potential applications to realistic string vacua

Abstract

Compactifications of the heterotic string are a viable route to phenomenologically realistic vacua and interesting new mathematics. While supergravity aspects of heterotic compactifications are largely well-understood their worldsheet description remains largely unexplored. We review recent work in developing linear sigma model techniques aimed at elucidating the underlying worldsheet description.