The LUCID-Timepix spacecraft payload and the CERN@school educational programme

Abstract

The Langton Ultimate Cosmic ray Intensity Detector (LUCID) is a payload onboard the satellite TechDemoSat-1, used to study the radiation environment in Low Earth Orbit (∼635 km). LUCID operated from 2014 to 2017, collecting over 2.1 million frames of radiation data from its five Timepix detectors on board. LUCID is one of the first uses of the Timepix detector technology in open space, with the data providing useful insight into the performance of this technology in new environments. The data has been analysed using computing resources provided by GridPP, with a novel machine learning algorithm. For managing the LUCID data, we have developed an online platform called Timepix Analysis Platform at School (TAPAS). This provides a swift and simple way for users to analyse data that they collect using Timepix detectors from both LUCID and other school based Timepix projects. These projects constitute a secondary school programme 'CERN@school' that give a framework for novel implementations of conventional classroom experiments using Timepix, as well as letting students contribute to large international scientific collaborations and devise their own research projects.