LOPES-3D, an antenna array for full signal detection of air-shower radio emission

TL;DR

LOPES-3D is a reconfigured antenna array designed to measure all three components of radio signals from cosmic ray air showers, aiming to improve parameter reconstruction and validate emission models.

Contribution

It introduces a new antenna type and calibration process for full vector measurement of radio emissions from air showers, enhancing detection capabilities.

Findings

Successful measurement of all three electric field components

Improved accuracy in cosmic ray parameter reconstruction

Validation of emission mechanism simulations

Abstract

To better understand the radio signal emitted by extensive air-showers and to further develop the radio detection technique of high-energy cosmic rays, the LOPES experiment was reconfigured to LOPES-3D. LOPES-3D is able to measure all three vectorial components of the electric field of radio emission from cosmic ray air showers. The additional measurement of the vertical component ought to increase the reconstruction accuracy of primary cosmic ray parameters like direction and energy, provides an improved sensitivity to inclined showers, and will help to validate simulation of the emission mechanisms in the atmosphere. LOPES-3D will evaluate the feasibility of vectorial measurements for large scale applications. In order to measure all three electric field components directly, a tailor-made antenna type (tripoles) was deployed. The change of the antenna type necessitated new pre-amplifiers and an overall recalibration. The reconfiguration and the recalibration procedure are presented and the operationality of LOPES-3D is demonstrated.