New High-Sensitivity Search for Neutron to Mirror-Neutron Oscillations at the PSI Ultracold Neutron Source
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: In a search for potential signals of neutron (n) to mirror-neutron (n^{'}) oscillations, a collaboration centered at the Paul Scherrer Institute investigated the remaining parameter space claimed by anomalies with a dedicated high-sensitivity apparatus. An elaborate magnetic-field-mapping analysis and Monte Carlo simulation of the cumulative n-n^{'} oscillation probabilities along the neutron trajectories inside the storage vessel complemented the neutron data analysis. Magnetic fields were scanned in the range 5<B<109 μT. No evidence of anomalous neutron losses was found. Consequently, new limits for the n-n^{'} oscillation time constant were set. The parameter space, previously claimed for potential signals, has been excluded to 99.98%.
Source: Physical Review Letters
DOI: 10.1103/2qck-n6mb
Language: English
Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,750
Awards: Search for Neutron to Mirror-Neutron Oscillations, G1248355524, Precision Physics with Muons and Ultracold Neutrons II, Search for signals of physics beyond the Standard Model with n2EDM at PSI, G2738698970, Spin-spectroscopy with ultracold neutrons - Searching for dark matter and lorentz violation using spin-precessing neutrons, Precision Physics with Muons and Ultracold Neutrons, G3543063619, A novel neutronics model of the solid D2 ultracold neutron converter at PSI aiming for increasing the source intensity, G3757907674, G4184616848, G4246163326, Highly accurate vector gradiometers for a next-generation neutron EDM experiment, G5852332965, G598502428, G6218720830, G6267998985, Measurement of the neutron electric dipole moment, G691666671, G7199728868, G7724730833, A new search for an electric dipole moment of the neutron with increased sensitivity and an improved UCN source., G8046919925, G8094256729, G8914429677, G972786147
OpenAlex ID: W7133219554