Exploring calorimetry new dimensions: a novel approach to maximize the performances of space experiments for high-energy cosmic rays

Gabriele Bigongiari

doi:10.1088/1742-6596/1342/1/012008

Abstract

Calorimeters are the key detectors for future space based experiments focused on high-energy cosmic rays spectra measurements. Thus it is extremely important to optimize their geometrical design, granularity and absorption depth, with respect to the total mass of the apparatus, which is among the most important constraints for a space mission. CaloCube is a homogeneous calorimeter whose basic geometry is cubic and isotropic, so as to detect particles arriving from every direction in space, thus maximizing the acceptance; granularity is obtained by filling the cubic volume with small cubic scintillating crystals. A prototype, instrumented with CsI(Tl) cubic crystals, has been constructed and tested with particle beams.

Highlights

The direct measurement of cosmic ray (CR) spectrum in the PeV region is one of the instrumental challenge for the future CR experiments
CaloCube is a homogeneous calorimeter whose basic geometry is cubic and isotropic, so as to detect particles arriving from every direction in space, maximizing the acceptance; granularity is obtained by filling the cubic volume with small cubic scintillating crystals
Direct measurements of cosmic ray proton and nuclei spectra up to 1 PeV/n and electron spectrum above 1 TeV require an acceptance of few m2str, an energy resolution better than 40% for nuclei and 2% for electrons, a good charge identification and a high electron proton rejection power

Summary

Introduction

The direct measurement of cosmic ray (CR) spectrum in the PeV region is one of the instrumental challenge for the future CR experiments. CaloCube is a homogeneous calorimeter whose basic geometry is cubic and isotropic, so as to detect particles arriving from every direction in space, maximizing the acceptance; granularity is obtained by filling the cubic volume with small cubic scintillating crystals. A prototype, instrumented with CsI(Tl) cubic crystals, has been constructed and tested with particle beams.

Results

Conclusion