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At least 163 records · Page 9
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2026

Real-Time Anomaly Detection for Beyond Standard Model Searches in ProtoDUNE Horizontal Drift

This paper summarizes work conducted throughout a SULI internship at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory focused on building an unsupervised machine learning model for real-time anomaly detection in ProtoDUNE Horizontal Drift. Using simulated data, we trained an autoencoder model on a pure cosmic dataset, and evaluated it on both cosmic and neutrino events---making the model an anomaly detector. The goal was to make a model which matches or exceeds the current ADC Simple Window trigger algorithm so that our model can perform at the same rate but provide sensitivity to potential beyond-the-Standard-Model (BSM) signatures. In the end, we were able to construct a model which slightly exceeds the capabilities of the ADC Simple Window while remaining completely unsupervised, achieving $31.9 \pm 0.2$\% ($26.6 \pm 0.2$\%) $\nu$ efficiency at 5 Hz (2 Hz), a 3.6 (3.2) percentage point increase. Additionally, $17.5 \pm 0.3$\% ($18.3 \pm 0.3$\%) of the events that passed the autoencoder at 5 Hz (2 Hz) were missed by the current trigger algorithm. Future work will investigate alternative normalization methods, including quantile transformation, and evaluate the model on ProtoDUNE-HD detector-glitch data if that data becomes available.

Wilson, Cameron C. [Cincinnati U., RWC]↗
DOE OSTI2026

Towards Anomaly Detection at the CMS High-Level Trigger System

Traditional trigger strategies in CMS typically rely on model-dependent selections or rigid kinematic cuts, risking the omission of unexpected exotic signatures. To address this, we propose a novel anomaly detection (AD) algorithm for the High-Level Trigger (HLT), designed to serve as a complementary second layer of filtering to the Level-1 AXOL1TL AD algorithm. We employ a transformer-based foundation model trained on a diverse ensemble of Standard Model processes. By combining a joint contrastive and classification objective, and using particle kinematics as inputs, the model learns to map events to a physics-informed latent space where anomalous events are isolated from dominant backgrounds. Preliminary results show that this strategy enhances the signal-to-background ratio across a range of rare SM and BSM scenarios. Furthermore, this work constitutes foundational R&D for the potential implementation of an analogous AD algorithm in the Level-1 trigger system for Phase-2.

Cruz, Roy [U. Wisconsin, Madison (main)] (ORCID:00↗
DOE OSTI2026

Real-Time Anomaly Detection for Beyond Standard Model Searches in ProtoDUNE Horizontal Drift

This paper summarizes work conducted throughout a SULI internship at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory focused on building an unsupervised machine learning model for real-time anomaly detection in ProtoDUNE Horizontal Drift. Using simulated data, we trained an autoencoder model on a pure cosmic dataset, and evaluated it on both cosmic and neutrino events---making the model an anomaly detector. The goal was to make a model which matches or exceeds the current ADC Simple Window trigger algorithm so that our model can perform at the same rate but provide sensitivity to potential beyond-the-Standard-Model (BSM) signatures. In the end, we were able to construct a model which slightly exceeds the capabilities of the ADC Simple Window while remaining completely unsupervised, achieving $31.9 \pm 0.2$\% ($26.6 \pm 0.2$\%) $\nu$ efficiency at 5 Hz (2 Hz), a 3.6 (3.2) percentage point increase. Additionally, $17.5 \pm 0.3$\% ($18.3 \pm 0.3$\%) of the events that passed the autoencoder at 5 Hz (2 Hz) were missed by the current trigger algorithm. Future work will investigate alternative normalization methods, including quantile transformation, and evaluate the model on ProtoDUNE-HD detector-glitch data if that data becomes available.

Wilson, Cameron C. [Cincinnati U., RWC]↗
DOE OSTI2026

ProtoDUNE-VD for Beyond the Standard Model Searches: Initial Studies and Future Prospects

The Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) is a next-generation long-baseline neutrino program designed to address fundamental questions in neutrino and astroparticle physics. ProtoDUNE, operating at the CERN Neutrino Platform, serves as a full-scale prototype for the DUNE Far Detector. In particular, the ProtoDUNE Vertical Drift (ProtoDUNE-VD) detector provides a powerful testbed for validating reconstruction and event selection techniques for future DUNE operations. In addition to detector R&D, ProtoDUNE enables a novel parasitic beam-dump search for beyond-the-Standard-Model (BSM) particles. However, it faces several challenges. Most notably, the ProtoDUNE-VD modules operate on the surface and are consequently exposed to an intense flux of cosmic rays, which requires a dedicated trigger. In addition, standard neutrinos are also produced in the T2 target area from the decay of unstable mesons, constituting a relevant background, which needs to be well understood and characterized a priori. We present the first studies based on 2025 data taken with a trigger designed to identify neutrino candidates at ProtoDUNE-VD. ProtoDUNE-VD’s high-resolution LArTPC imaging allows detailed reconstruction of decay and scattering signatures. This work demonstrates the complementarity of traditional tools such as Pandora and modern machine-learning approaches, providing key input for atmospheric neutrino and rare-event searches in the DUNE Vertical Drift program.

Bagdu, Halit [U. Iowa, Iowa City]↗
DOE OSTI2022

Beyond the Standard Model physics prospects at DUNE

The Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) is an international project for neutrino physics and proton-decay searches, currently in the design and construction stages. Once built, DUNE will consist of two detectors exposed to the world's most intense neutrino beam. The near detector will record neutrino interactions near the beginning of the beamline, at Fermilab. The other, much larger, detector, comprising four 17-kton liquid argon time projection chambers (LArTPCs), will be installed at a depth of 1.5 km at the Sanford Underground Research Facility in South Dakota, about 1300 km away from the neutrino source.The unique combination of the high-intensity neutrino beam with DUNE's high-resolution near detector system and massive LArTPC far detector enables a variety of probes of BSM physics, either novel or with unprecedented sensitivity, from the potential discovery of new particles (sterile neutrinos or dark matter), to precision tests of the three-flavour neutrino mixing paradigm, or the detailed study of rare processes.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗
DOE OSTI2022

The DUNE Photon Detection System

DUNE is an underground neutrino oscillation experiment that will be performing precision measurements of the PMNS matrix to determine unambiguously the mass ordering and the leptonic CP violation. It also comprises a rich non-accelerator physics program for the detection of supernova neutrinos, nucleon decay, and BSM physics. DUNE employs a high-power neutrino beam under construction at Fermilab together with the DUNE Near Detector, and four liquid argon TPCs (Far Detector) that will be installed at the Sanford Underground Research Facility in South Dakota, 1300 km away from the neutrino source. The photon detection system (PDS) – which records the 128 nm scintillation light of argon and provides the time of interaction of the beam neutrinos in the Far Detector - is critical for studying nucleon decay and detecting Supernova Neutrino Bursts. The PDS also complements the calorimetric measurement performed by the TPC (i.e. the charge readout) and contributes to the energy calibration and time performance of the Far Detector. The article is an overview of the design of the PDS for the first DUNE far detector module, with special emphasis on VUV light trapping in a cryogenic environment, its technical challenges, and the expected physics performance. The status of the construction of the PDS and its validation in the Run II of ProtoDUNE-SP will be also presented.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
DOE OSTI2025

Searching sterile neutrinos with ICARUS at FNAL

The ICARUS T600 detector completed in 2013 a successful three-year physics run at the underground LNGS laboratory and after a significant overhaul at CERN, it has been installed at Fermilab. In June 2022 a new data taking started and ICARUS is presently recording neutrino events from BNB and NuMI off-axis beams. ICARUS aims at first to investigate the claim by Neutrino-4 short-baseline reactor experiment and to perform with the NuMI beam measurements of neutrino cross sections in LAr and several BSM searches. ICARUS will soon jointly search for evidence of sterile neutrinos with the Short-Baseline Near Detector (SBND). In this proceeding the status of the T600 detector and preliminary results from the ICARUS data analysis with the BNB and NuMI beams will be shortly described.

Farnese, Christian [INFN, Padua] (ORCID:0000000163↗
DOE OSTI2023

Future accelerator projects: new physics at the energy frontier

High-energy colliders provide direct access to the energy frontier, allowing to search for new physics at scales as high as the machine’s center-of-mass energy, perform precision measurements of the Standard Model (SM) parameters, including those related to the flavor sector, and determine the Higgs boson properties and their connection to electroweak symmetry breaking. Each proposed future collider option has its own specific science goals and capabilities, depending on the designed running energy (energies) amongst other parameters. In this paper, an overview of the discovery potential of future circular and linear colliders is presented. Results from searches for beyond the Standard Model (BSM) phenomena at proton–proton, proton–electron, electron–positron, and muon–antimuon colliders are summarized.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗
DOE OSTI2022

Studying ΔL = 2 Lepton Flavor Violation with Muons

Flavor violating processes in the lepton sector have highly suppressed branching ratios in the standard model. Thus, observation of lepton flavor violation (LFV) constitutes a clear indication of physics beyond the standard model (BSM). We review new physics searches in the processes that violate the conservation of lepton (muon) flavor by two units with muonia and muonium–antimuonium oscillations.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗
DOE OSTI2025

The DUNE Science Program

The international collaboration designing and constructing the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) at the Long-Baseline Neutrino Facility (LBNF) has developed a two-phase strategy for the implementation of this leading-edge, large-scale science project. The 2023 report of the US Particle Physics Project Prioritization Panel (P5) reaffirmed this vision and strongly endorsed DUNE Phase I and Phase II, as did the previous European Strategy for Particle Physics. The construction of DUNE Phase I is well underway. DUNE Phase II consists of a third and fourth far detector module, an upgraded near detector complex, and an enhanced > 2 MW beam. The fourth FD module is conceived as a 'Module of Opportunity', aimed at supporting the core DUNE science program while also expanding the physics opportunities with more advanced technologies. The DUNE collaboration is submitting four main contributions to the 2026 Update of the European Strategy for Particle Physics process. This submission to the 'Neutrinos and cosmic messengers', 'BSM physics' and 'Dark matter and dark sector' streams focuses on the physics program of DUNE. Additional inputs related to DUNE detector technologies and R&D, DUNE software and computing, and European contributions to Fermilab accelerator upgrades and facilities for the DUNE experiment, are also being submitted to other streams.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗
DOE OSTI2025

Recent results from MicroBooNE

Modelling and reconstructing neutrino-nucleus scattering is difficult, but it is crucial to do it precisely to enable next-generation oscillation measurements. Liquid argon time projection chambers (LArTPCs), such as MicroBooNE, can be the tool for this job as they are excellent precision neutrino detectors with their ability to produce detailed three-dimensional interaction images and precise energy and spatial resolution. MicroBooNE currently possesses the world's largest neutrino-argon scattering data set collected over five years using the BNB and NuMI neutrino beams at Fermilab. The experiment has performed measurements over a broad range of physics topics including neutrino argon cross sections, searches for BSM physics, and investigations of the MiniBooNE LEE excess. Many of these measurements are essential for improving the modelling of nuclear effects for both MicroBooNE and future LArTPC neutrino experiments, such as DUNE. This talk will give an overview of recent MicroBooNE results, the analysis techniques that enable them, and prospects for future measurements.

Parkinson, Holly B. [U. Edinburgh (main)] (ORCID:0↗
DOE OSTI2022

Searching for Clues for a Matter Dominated Universe in Liquid Argon Time Projection Chambers

Liquid Argon Time Projection Chambers (LArTPCs) represent one of the most widely utilized neutrino detection techniques in neutrino experiments, for instance, in the Short Baseline Neutrino (SBN) program and the future large-scale LArTPC: Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE). The high-end technique, facilitating excellent spatial and calorimetric reconstruction resolution, also enables testing exotic Beyond Standard Model (BSM) theories, such as baryon number violation (BNV) processes (e.g., proton-decay, neutron-antineutron oscillation). At the same time, Machine Learning (ML) techniques have demonstrated their ubiquitous use in recent decades; ML techniques have also become some of the most powerful tools in high-energy physics (HEP) analyses. Furthermore, the development of algorithms to cater to the needs of problems in HEP (i.e., triggering, reconstruction, improving sensitivity, etc.) has also become an active area of research. By developing a combined approach using Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and Boosted Decision Tree (BDT) techniques, the sensitivity of neutron-antineutron oscillation in DUNE is evaluated for a projected exposure of 400kton·years. Additionally, to meet the triggering requirement to select such rare events in DUNE, such a search is only supported with highly efficient self-triggering algorithms. An ML-based self-triggering scheme for large-scale LArTPCs, such as DUNE, is also developed with the intention of implementation on field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). The ML-based approach for searching for neutron-antineutron oscillation can be demonstrated and validated on the current LArTPC MicroBooNE. The analysis in MicroBooNE represents the first-ever search for neutron-antineutron oscillation in a LArTPC. DUNE's projected 90% C.L. sensitivity to the neutron antineutron oscillation lifetime is 6.45×10³² years, assuming 1.327×10³⁵ neutron·years, equivalent to 10 years of DUNE far detector exposure (400kton·years). For MicroBooNE, assuming 372 seconds of exposure (equivalent to 3.13×10³⁶ neutron·years), the 90% C.L. lifetime sensitivity is found at 3.07×10²⁵ yrs, after accounting for Monte-Carlo statistical uncertainty and systematic uncertainty from detector effects.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
NASA NTRS1976

Space shuttle booster separation motor design

The separation characteristics of the space shuttle solid rocket boosters (SRBs) are introduced along with the system level requirements for the booster separation motors (BSMs). These system requirements are then translated into specific motor requirements that control the design of the BSM. Each motor component is discussed including its geometry, material selection, and fabrication process. Also discussed is the propellant selection, grain design, and performance capabilities of the motor. The upcoming test program to develop and qualify the motor is outlined.

Smith, G. W.↗
NASA NTRS1978

A unique nozzle cover for the Shuttle booster separation motors

The stringent requirements imposed upon the Shuttle booster separation system led to the development of two unique nozzle cover concepts with potential applications in other space propulsion systems. Major requirements were to (1) protect the booster separation motors (BSMs) from the ascent aerothermal environment; (2) provide a humidity seal for the BSM during storage and readiness on the launch pad; (3) open completely during the ignition transient; and (4) produce no debris during ascent, separation, and booster reentry. The nozzle cover concepts included (1) a frangible reinforced elastomeric cover with a retraction mechanism to remove the cover sections away from the plume, and (2) a stainless steel cover hinged by a plastically deforming torsion pin.

Dettling, J. R.↗
NASA NTRS1985

Debris control design achievements of the booster separation motors

The stringent debris control requirements imposed on the design of the Space Shuttle booster separation motor are described along with the verification program implemented to ensure compliance with debris control objectives. The principal areas emphasized in the design and development of the Booster Separation Motor (BSM) relative to debris control were the propellant formulation and nozzle closures which protect the motors from aerodynamic heating and moisture. A description of the motor design requirements, the propellant formulation and verification program, and the nozzle closures design and verification are presented.

Smith, G. W.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Laboratory measurements of on-board subsystems

Good progress was achieved on the test bed for on-board subsystems for future satellites. The test bed is for subsystems developed previously. Four test setups were configured in the INTELSAT technical labs: (1) TDMA on-board modem; (2) multicarrier demultiplexer demodulator; (3) IBS/IDR baseband processor; and (4) baseband switch matrix. The first three series of tests are completed and the tests on the BSM are in progress. Descriptions of test setups and major test results are included; the format of the presentation is outlined.

Nuspl, P. P.↗
NASA NTRS1994

Debris/ice/TPS assessment and integrated photographic analysis for Shuttle Mission STS-62

A pre-launch debris inspection of the pad and Shuttle vehicle was conducted on 2 March 1994. The detailed walkdown of Launch Pad 39B and MLP-1 also included the primary flight elements OV-102 Columbia (16th flight), ET-62 (LWT 55), and BI-064 SRB's. There were no significant facility or vehicle anomalies. After the launch on March 4th, a debris inspection of Pad 39B was performed. Damage to the pad overall was minimal. On-orbit photographs taken by the flight crew and two films from the ET/ORB umbilical cameras of the External Tank after separation from the Orbiter revealed no major damage or lost flight hardware that would have been a safety of flight concern. Orbiter performance on final approach appeared normal. Infrared imagery of landing gear deployment showed the loss of thermal barrier from the nose gear wheel well. The missing thermal barrier material was not recovered. The Solid Rocket Boosters were inspected at Hanger AF after retrieval. Both frustums had a combined total of 44 MSA-2 debonds over fasteners. Significant amounts of BTA had been applied to closeouts on the RH frustum, forward skirt, and aft skirt. Hypalon paint was blistered/missing over the areas were the BTA had been applied. The underlying BTA was not sooted (IFA STS-62-B-1). Investigation of this condition has concluded there was insufficient heat rates to cause blistering of the Hypalon until late in the ascent phase. A post landing inspection of OV-102 was conducted after the landing at KSC. The Orbiter TPS sustained a total of 97 hits, of which 16 had a major dimension of 1 inch or larger. The Orbiter lower surface had a total of 36 hits, of which 7 had a major dimension of 1 inch or larger. Based on these numbers and comparison to statistics from previous missions of similar configuration, both the total number of debris hits and the number of hits 1 inch or larger was less than average. Six thermal barriers, total size approximately 36 in. x 3 in. x 1.5 in., and one corner tile piece 4 in. x 4 in., were missing from the nose landing gear doors. Runway infrared cameras recorded these objects falling from the Orbiter when the nose landing gear doors were opened on final approach. A search of the area under the flight path failed to recover the missing thermal batteries, which may be submerged in the large body of water south of the runway. The cause for the loss of the material was attributed to the way the substrate was prepared for bonding at the vendor. Orbiter post landing microchemical sample results revealed a variety of residuals in the Orbiter window samples. These were attributed to SRB BSM exhaust, Orbiter TPS, window protective covers and processing, natural landing site products, and paints/primers from various sources. The residual sampling data do not indicate a single source of damaging debris and all of these materials have been documented previously in analyses for post landing sample reports. Data from residual sampling also showed no trends when compared to previous mission data. A total of ten Post Launch Anomalies, including one IFA, were observed during the STS-62 mission assessment.

Katnik, Gregory N.↗
NASA NTRS2001

Thermal Analysis in Support of the Booster Separation Motor Crack Investigation

During a post-test inspection of a Booster Separation Motor (BSM) from a Lot Acceptance Test (LAT), a crack was noticed in the graphite throat. Since this was an out-of-family occurrence, an investigation team was formed to determine the cause of the crack. This paper will describe thermal analysis techniques used in support of this investigation. Models were generated to predict gradients in nominal motor conditions, as well as potentially anomalous conditions. Analysis was also performed on throats that were tested in the Laser Hardened Material Evaluation Laboratory (LHMEL). Some of these throats were pre-cracked, while others represented configurations designed to amplify effects of thermal stresses. Results from these analyses will be presented in this paper.

Davis, Darrell↗