HERD
Tests conducted at CERN for the HERD prototype for high-energy cosmic radiation detection
Over the months of September and October 2023, the High-Energy Cosmic Radiation Detection (HERD) prototype underwent testing at CERN, both at the Proton Synchrotron (PS) and the Super Proton Synchrotron (SPS). IFAE played a crucial role in developing some of its components, promising new perspectives in the exploration of fundamental cosmic phenomena.
The initial testing phase, held at the Proton Synchrotron (PS) from August 29 to September 12, 2023, was deemed successful. Encouraged by this outcome, scientists proceeded with the second series of tests between October 2 and October 16, this time at the Super Proton Synchrotron (SPS). These tests aimed to validate and optimize various sub-detector concepts, marking the completion of Phase B of the project.
IFAE contributes the trigger & readout system for two sub-detectors: the fiber tracker (FIT, in the picture) and plastic scintillator detector (PSD), which will be instrumental for HERD’s capabilities as a gamma-ray space telescope.
The IFAE crew at the beam test was composed of Keerthana Lathika, Monong Yu, Giulio Lucchetta, Juan Boix, Laia Cardiel and Javier Rico.