Results of 2009 Optics Studies of the SPS to LHC Transfer Lines

In 2008, the SPS-to-LHC transfer line operation allowed for the first time to perform beam measurements in the last part of the lines and into the LHC. Beam parameters were measured and compared with expectation. Discrepancies were observed in the dispersion matching into the LHC, and also in the vertical phase advance along the line. In 2009, extensive theoretical and simulation work was performed in order to understand the possible sources of these discrepancies. This allowed establishing an updated model of the beam line, taking into account the importance of the full magnetic model, the limited dipole corrector strengths and the precise alignment of beam elements. During 2009, beam time was allocated in order to perform further measurements, checking and refining the optical model of the transfer line and LHC injection region and validating the different assumptions. Results of the 2009 optics measurements and comparison with the beam specification and model are presented.