Virtual Compton Scattering at Q$^2$=0.05 (GeV/c)$^2$

The generalized polarizabilities of the proton describe the response of the proton to a quasistatic electric or magnetic field, and provide a test of our understanding of low-energy QCD. We have measured the virtual Compton scattering (VCS) cross section at Q$^2$=0.05 (GeV)$^2$ at MIT-Bates. Out-going protons were detected using the multiple out-of-plane spectrometer system (OOPS), which allows to suppress the normally dominant Bethe-Heitler radiation. In this talk, the experiment is described in more detail. The cross section and the polarizabilities are presented and discussed.