How the unstable muon could revolutionize experimental particle physics

A new feasibility study for constructing machines that will enable further understanding of the Higgs boson and the exploration of the next energy frontier in particle physics was the focus of researchers participating in the U.S. Higgs Factory – Future Circular Collider Workshop.

U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright visited Fermilab recently to see how the lab is driving American leadership in fundamental sciences and discovery, including in cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence. His tour included one of the laboratory’s five particle accelerators, and the Secretary learned more about Fermilab’s flagship project, the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment.

Physicists are exploring the development of a muon collider — an advanced particle accelerator that could reveal new insights into the nature of our universe. Though great challenges exist in studying fast-decaying muons, technological advancements in accelerators, magnets and detectors could make building the collider a reality. Recent workshops hosted by Fermilab brought together researchers from around the globe to address some of these challenges.