First Physics Studies with DUNE Near Detector Prototype (2x2)

The Near Detector (ND) of the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) allows high-statistics characterization of the DUNE beam close to the source. It is important to understand the capabilities of DUNE ND at the prototyping stage. The DUNE ND Liquid Argon Time Projection Chamber (LArTPC) prototype, known as the "2x2", is scheduled to begin data taking early in 2024, using the NuMi beam. Initial analysis goals include the measurement of the number of all charged particle tracks, both with and without a pion in the final state, and the first measurement of final state particles in inclusive charged-current (CC) muon-antineutrino scattering. Ongoing simulation and reconstruction studies will be described with the goal of selecting CC anti-neutrino events and their charged final state particles in the detector. These measurements will demonstrate the capabilities of the LArTPC of DUNE's ND and will help developing event simulation and reconstruction techniques for the first round of DUNE analysis.