Search for the decay B^0 --> gamma-gamma

Abstract

We present a limit on the branching fraction for the decay $B^0 \to \gamma \gamma$ using data collected at the $\Upsilon(4S)$ resonance with the BABAR detector at the PEP-II asymmetric--energy $e^+e^-$ collider. Based on the observation of one event in the signal region, out of a sample of $21.3 \times 10^6$ $e^+e^- \to \Upsilon(4S) \to B\bar B$ decays, we establish an upper limit on the branching fraction of ${\cal B}(B^0 \to \gamma \gamma) < 1.7 \times 10^{-6}$ at the 90% confidence level. This result substantially improves upon existing limits.