Z Pole Observables in the MSSM

We present the currently most accurate prediction of Z pole observables such as sin^2 theta_eff, Gamma_Z, R_b, R_l, and sigma^0_had in the Minimal Supersymmetric Standard Model (MSSM). We take into account the complete one-loop results including the full complex phase dependence, all available MSSM two-loop corrections as well as the full SM results. We furthermore include higher-order corrections in the MSSM Higgs boson sector, entering via virtual Higgs boson contributions. For Gamma(Z -> neutralino{1} neutralino{1}) we present a full one-loop calculation. We analyse the impact of the different sectors of the MSSM with particular emphasis on the effects of the complex phases. The predictions for the Z boson observables and M_W are compared with the current experimental values. Furthermore we provide an estimate of the remaining higher-order uncertainties in the prediction of sin^2 theta_eff.Comment: 53 pages, 20 figures, journal versio

Precision Observables in the MSSM: W mass and the muon magnetic moment

The precision observables M_W and g-2 of the muon are discussed in the framework of the MSSM. Recent progress in the evaluation of the theoretical predictions is described, and the MSSM predictions are compared with the SM predictions and the experimental values.Comment: 4 pages, 2 figures. To appear in Proceedings of SUSY06, the 14th International Conference on Supersymmetry and the Unification of Fundamental Interactions, UC Irvine, California, 12-17 June 200

Propagation of optical excitations by dipolar interactions in metal nanoparticle chains

Dispersion relations for dipolar modes propagating along a chain of metal nanoparticles are calculated by solving the full Maxwell equations, including radiation damping. The nanoparticles are treated as point dipoles, which means the results are valid only for a/d <= 1/3, where a is the particle radius and d the spacing. The discrete modes for a finite chain are first calculated, then these are mapped onto the dispersion relations appropriate for the infinite chain. Computed results are given for a chain of 50-nm diameter Ag spheres spaced by 75 nm. We find large deviations from previous quasistatic results: Transverse modes interact strongly with the light line. Longitudinal modes develop a bandwidth more than twice as large, resulting in a group velocity that is more than doubled. All modes for which k_mode <= w/c show strongly enhanced decay due to radiation damping.Comment: 26 pages, 7 figures, 2 tables. to appear in Phys. Rev.

Upper limits on stray force noise for LISA

We have developed a torsion pendulum facility for LISA gravitational reference sensor ground testing that allows us to put significant upper limits on residual stray forces exerted by LISA-like position sensors on a representative test mass and to characterize specific sources of disturbances for LISA. We present here the details of the facility, the experimental procedures used to maximize its sensitivity, and the techniques used to characterize the pendulum itself that allowed us to reach a torque sensitivity below 20 fNm /sqrt{Hz} from 0.3 to 10 mHz. We also discuss the implications of the obtained results for LISA.Comment: To be published in Classical and Quantum Gravity, special issue on Amaldi5 2003 conference proceedings (10 pages, 6 figures

Measuring random force noise for LISA aboard the LISA Pathfinder mission

The LTP (LISA Testflight Package), to be flown aboard the ESA / NASA LISA Pathfinder mission, aims to demonstrate drag-free control for LISA test masses with acceleration noise below 30 fm/s^2/Hz^1/2 from 1-30 mHz. This paper describes the LTP measurement of random, position independent forces acting on the test masses. In addition to putting an overall upper limit for all source of random force noise, LTP will measure the conversion of several key disturbances into acceleration noise and thus allow a more detailed characterization of the drag-free performance to be expected for LISA.Comment: 7 pages, 3 figures. To be published in Classical and Quantum Gravity with the proceedings of the 2003 Amaldi Meetin