Kaon Physics at BNL

TL;DR

This paper reviews the BNL kaon decay program, highlighting recent results and future prospects, especially focusing on the rare decay modes k+->pnn and kl->pnn, with recent observations and plans for increased sensitivity.

Contribution

It reports the first observation of two k+->pnn events and discusses upcoming experiments aiming for precise measurements of these rare decay modes.

Findings

Observation of two k+->pnn events by E787

Upcoming E949 experiment to increase sensitivity

Plans to measure branching ratios with higher precision

Abstract

The rare kaon decay program at BNL is summarized. A brief review of recent results is provided along with a discussion of prospects for the future of this program. The primary focus is the two golden modes: k+->pnn and kl->pnn. The first step in an ambitious plan to precisely measure both branching ratios has been successfully completed with the observation of two k+->pnn events by E787. The E949 experiment is poised to reach an order of magnitude further in sensitivity and to observe ~10 Standard Model events.