The prototype string for the km3-scale Baikal neutrino telescope

TL;DR

This paper reports on the deployment and initial operation results of a prototype string for the km3-scale Baikal neutrino telescope, featuring redesigned optical modules and readout systems, integrated into the NT200+ array.

Contribution

It introduces a new prototype string with improved components for the Baikal neutrino telescope and presents initial in-situ operational results.

Findings

Successful deployment of the prototype string in 2008

Integration with NT200+ demonstrated operational functionality

Initial data shows promising performance of the new design

Abstract

A prototype string for the future km3-scale Baikal neutrino telescope has been deployed in April, 2008 and is fully integrated into the NT200+ telescope. All basic string elements - optical modules (with 12"/13" hemispherical photomultipliers), 200MHz FADC readout and calibration system - have been redesigned following experience with NT200+. First results of in-situ operation of this prototype string are presented.