Timing techniques applied to distributed modular high-energy astronomy: the HERMES project

TL;DR

The paper discusses the HERMES project, a constellation of nano-satellites designed to detect and localize high-energy transients like Gamma-Ray Bursts using advanced timing techniques for improved multi-messenger astronomy.

Contribution

It introduces novel timing techniques for localizing bright high-energy transients with a nano-satellite constellation, advancing distributed astronomy capabilities.

Findings

Demonstrated effective localization of Gamma-Ray Bursts

Quantified the all-sky monitor capabilities of HERMES Pathfinder

Achieved accurate transient event timing with spatially spaced detectors

Abstract

The HERMES-TP/SP (High Energy Rapid Modular Ensemble of Satellites -- Technologic and Scientific Pathfinder) is an in-orbit demonstration of the so-called distributed astronomy concept. Conceived as a mini-constellation of six 3U nano-satellites hosting a new miniaturized detector, HERMES-TP/SP aims at the detection and accurate localisation of bright high-energy transients such as Gamma-Ray Bursts. The large energy band, the excellent temporal resolution and the wide field of view that characterize the detectors of the constellation represent the key features for the next generation high-energy all-sky monitor with good localisation capabilities that will play a pivotal role in the future of Multi-messenger Astronomy. In this work, we will describe in detail the temporal techniques that allow the localisation of bright transient events taking advantage of their almost simultaneous observation by spatially spaced detectors. Moreover, we will quantitatively discuss the all-sky monitor capabilities of the HERMES Pathfinder as well as its achievable accuracies on the localisation of the detected Gamma-Ray Bursts.