An LED-based Flasher System for VERITAS

TL;DR

This paper presents an LED-based flasher system for VERITAS telescopes that offers higher rate operation, improved calibration precision, and lower cost compared to traditional laser systems, enhancing gamma-ray telescope calibration.

Contribution

The paper introduces a novel LED-based flasher system for gamma-ray telescopes, providing higher calibration rates and better cost efficiency than existing laser-based systems.

Findings

LED flasher system operates at higher rates

Calibration precision is improved with LEDs

System is more cost-effective than lasers

Abstract

We describe a flasher system designed for use in monitoring the gains of the photomultiplier tubes used in the VERITAS gamma-ray telescopes. This system uses blue light-emitting diodes (LEDs) so it can be operated at much higher rates than a traditional laser-based system. Calibration information can be obtained with better statistical precision with reduced loss of observing time. The LEDs are also much less expensive than a laser. The design features of the new system are presented, along with measurements made with a prototype mounted on one of the VERITAS telescopes.