Hypernuclear spectroscopy at JLab

Lambda hypernuclei have been extensively studied by using the meson-induced reactions, such as ($\pi^+$, K$^+$) and (K$^-$, $\pi^-$) at KEK and BNL. The (e,e$'$K$^+$) reaction is a new method for hypernuclear spectroscopy, and it has unique advantages over those meson-induced reactions. For example, the (e,e$'$K$^+$) reaction excites spin-flip as well as spin-non-flip $\Lambda$ hypernuclear states and produces neutron rich $\Lambda$ hypernuclei by converting a proton to a $\Lambda$ hyperon. From the experimental point of view, it is a great advantage that a high-quality electron beam available at JLab allows us to improve the energy resolution down to sub-MeV levels. Encouraged by the success of the first hypernuclear spectroscopy through the (e,e$'$K$^+$) reaction (JLab E89-009), a new improved experiment with a newly developed High resolution Kaon Spectrometer (HKS) and a new configuration of the electron spectrometer is going to start at JLab Hall C (JLab E01-011/E02-017) from June, 2005. Overview of the JLab Hall-C hypernuclear experiments and current analysis status will be presented. If time allows, an upgrade plan of the electron spectrometer will be also explained.