Published online by Cambridge University Press: 14 July 2005
We consider a special class of solutions of the BKP hierarchy which we call $\tau$-functions of hypergeometric type. These are series in Schur $Q$-functions over partitions, with coefficients parameterised by a function of one variable $\xi$, where the quantities $\xi(k)$, $k\in\mathbb{Z^+}$, are integrals of motion of the BKP hierarchy. We show that this solution is, at the same time, a infinite soliton solution of a dual BKP hierarchy, where the variables $\xi(k)$ are now related to BKP higher times. In particular, rational solutions of the BKP hierarchy are related to (finite) multi-soliton solution of the dual BKP hierarchy. The momenta of the solitons are given by the parts of partitions in the Schur $Q$-function expansion of the $\tau$-function of hypergeometric type. We also show that the KdV and the NLS soliton $\tau$-functions coinside the BKP $\tau$-functions of hypergeometric type, evaluated at special point of BKP higher time; the variables $\xi$ (which are BKP integrals of motions) being related to KdV and NLS higher times.