On Second–Quantized Open Superstring Theory

The SO(32) theory, in the limit where it is an open superstring theory, is completely specified in the light–cone gauge as a second–quantized string theory in terms of a “matrix string” model. The theory is defined by the neighbourhood of a 1+1 dimensional fixed point theory, characterized by an Abelian gauge theory with type IB Green–Schwarz form. Non–orientability and SO(32) gauge symmetry arise naturally, and the theory effectively constructs an orientifold projection of the (weakly coupled) matrix type IIB theory (also discussed herein). The fixed point theory is a conformal field theory with boundary, defining the free string theory. Interactions involving the interior of open and closed strings are governed by a twist operator in the bulk, while string end–points are created and destroyed by a boundary twist operator.