Work

Exploring the high-energy universe with a novel photodetector configuration

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Water Cherenkov detectors (WCDs) are key in exploring high-energy astrophysical phenomena. They offer a lower-cost and accessible alternative to space-based instruments for detecting high-energy particles. This contribution introduces a novel photodetector configuration as a smaller and cost-effective alternative to the traditionally used large photomultiplier tubes (PMTs). We present the tests performed at the University of Leicester, employing a custom-built water Cherenkov detector — featuring a downward-facing 3-inch PMT coupled with wavelength-shifting (WLS) plates. In parallel, GEANT4 Monte Carlo simulations are being conducted to model the performance of this new configuration. The unit is designed to identify hadronic events for WCDs like those envisaged for the Southern Wide-field Gamma-ray Observatory (SWGO).

Source: Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section A Accelerators Spectrometers Detectors and Associated Equipment

DOI: 10.1016/j.nima.2025.170842

Authors: Jazmin Stewart, Jon Lapington

Institution: University of Leicester

Language: English

Topic: Particle Detector Development and Performance

Subfield: Nuclear and High Energy Physics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,620

Funders: University of Leicester, Science and Technology Facilities Council