Kaon physics at BNL

Abstract

The rare kaon decay program at BNL is summarized. A brief review of recent results is provided along with a discussion of prospects for the future of this program. The primary focus is the two golden modes: K + → π +ν ν and K° L → π°ν ν . The first step in an ambitious program to precisely measure both branching ratios has been successfully completed with the observation of two K + → π +ν ν events by E787. The E949 experiment is poised to reach an order of magnitude further in sensitivity and to observe ∼10 Standard Model events.