η meson physics with WASA-at-COSY

Abstract

In recent years, the η meson has been a focal point of research for the WASA experiment at the Cooler Synchrotron COSY of the Research Center Jülich. Production experiments using nucleon-nucleon and nucleon-nucleus collisions have been performed, studying the η − N interaction in various configurations. A better understanding of this interaction is a key aspect in the ongoing search for η-nuclear bound states. In addition, the η meson itself represents an ideal laboratory for precision studies of the strong and electromagnetic interactions as well as for searches for beyond Standard Model physics. Large datasets were assembled using the WASA experiment to enable studies on rare and forbidden decay modes. An overview over recent highlights of the WASA η meson physics programme was given.