Correlations between $\theta_{13}$ and $\theta_{23}$ in a very long baseline neutrino oscillation experiment

Abstract

A very long baseline experiment, with $L/E$ of $1.6 \times 10^4$ m/MeV, has been proposed as the ideal means to measure $\theta_{13}$, including its sign, for neutrino energies less than 50 MeV. Higher energies require consideration of the earth MSW effect. Approximating a constant density mantle, we examine the $\nu_e$--$\nu_\mu$ and $\nu_\mu$--$\nu_\mu$ oscillation channels at very long baselines with particular focus upon the deviation of $\theta_{23}$ from maximal mixing and the sign of $\theta_{13}$. It is demonstrated that measurements of these oscillation channels in this region are sensitive to $\theta_{13}$, including its sign, and to $\theta_{23}$, including its octant, with a significant correlation between the value of $\theta_{13}$ and the difference of $\theta_{23}$ from maximal mixing.