A novel camera type for very high energy gamma-ray astronomy based on Geiger-mode avalanche photodiodes

TL;DR

This paper presents the design, commissioning, and initial cosmic-ray observations of a novel 36-pixel G-APD camera for atmospheric Cherenkov telescopes, demonstrating sub-nanosecond timing and successful air shower detection.

Contribution

It introduces a new G-APD camera prototype with integrated data acquisition for high-energy gamma-ray astronomy, marking the first use of a complete G-APD camera in such measurements.

Findings

Achieved sub-nanosecond time resolution

Recorded cosmic-ray air showers with the G-APD camera

Successfully demonstrated the camera's capability in gamma-ray astronomy

Abstract

Geiger-mode avalanche photodiodes (G-APD) are promising new sensors for light detection in atmospheric Cherenkov telescopes. In this paper, the design and commissioning of a 36-pixel G-APD prototype camera is presented. The data acquisition is based on the Domino Ring Sampling (DRS2) chip. A sub-nanosecond time resolution has been achieved. Cosmic-ray induced air showers have been recorded using an imaging mirror setup, in a self-triggered mode. This is the first time that such measurements have been carried out with a complete G-APD camera.