Implementation and first results of the KM3NeT real-time core-collapse supernova neutrino search

TL;DR

This paper details the implementation and initial results of KM3NeT's real-time supernova neutrino detection system, highlighting its ability to detect neutrino bursts from Galactic supernovae and integrate with global alert networks.

Contribution

It presents the first operational real-time supernova neutrino search in KM3NeT detectors and describes the system's integration with global alert systems like SNEWS.

Findings

First detection units operational since 2019

Successful real-time neutrino burst detection capability

Integration with global supernova alert networks

Abstract

The KM3NeT research infrastructure is under construction in the Mediterranean Sea. KM3NeT will study atmospheric and astrophysical neutrinos with two multi-purpose neutrino detectors, ARCA and ORCA, primarily aimed at GeV-PeV neutrinos. Thanks to the multi-photomultiplier tube design of the digital optical modules, KM3NeT is capable of detecting the neutrino burst from a Galactic or near-Galactic core-collapse supernova. This potential is already exploitable with the first detection units deployed in the sea. This paper describes the real-time implementation of the supernova neutrino search, operating on the two KM3NeT detectors since the first months of 2019. A quasi-online astronomy analysis is introduced to study the time profile of the detected neutrinos for especially significant events. The mechanism of generation and distribution of alerts, as well as the integration into the SNEWS and SNEWS 2.0 global alert systems are described. The approach for the follow-up of external alerts with a search for a neutrino excess in the archival data is defined. Finally, an overview of the current detector capabilities and a report after the first two years of operation are given.