Small Russian device detects cosmic rays from space
Amman1 min read
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Scientists at the Moscow Engineering Physics Institute (MEPhI) have developed a small scientific device capable of detecting gamma rays and cosmic rays in orbit, in preparation for its use on board nanosatellites.
The device is characterized by its small size, as its dimensions do not exceed a few centimeters, while its weight does not exceed a few hundred grams, making it suitable for installation on the outer surfaces of "CubeSat" nanosatellites developed by the Russian companies "Sputnix" and "Geoscan".
The device relies on a gamma-ray spectrometer that has been modified to detect flows of charged particles coming from space, while reducing the impact of secondary particles resulting from the interaction of cosmic radiation with the satellite's materials.
The importance of this innovation stands out when compared to previous devices, such as the device used to study cosmic rays on the Russian "Resurs-DK1" satellite, which operated between 2006 and 2016 and weighed about 470 kilograms.
According to the researchers, this technology could contribute in the future to the development of more efficient ground-based and space-based observatories and telescopes, and expand the scope of studies related to cosmic rays and energy flows in space.
