The Michigan group is carrying out physics and detector simulations, along with R&D on precise mechanical alignment for a new electron-positron linear collider detector proposed for the coming decade. The collider will bring together electrons and positrons at center-of-mass energies greater than 500 GeV. These collisions will enable the precise study of known particles and (we hope) the discovery of entirely new particles that give insight into the fundamental forces and composition of the universe.

Our specific interests at Michigan include:

• Optimization of the charged-particle tracking system
• Precise alignment of the tracking system using Frequency Scanned Interferometry (FSI)
• Simulations of new physics processes (Higgs and Supersymmetry production) that affect tracking

Overhead view of the dual-laser FSI system:

Beam choppers used in the dual-laser FSI system:

Sample data and analysis diagram for FSI measurements