A mobile high spatial-resolution Muography instrument based on large-area Micromegas detectors

TL;DR

This paper presents a portable, high-resolution muography instrument using Micromegas detectors, capable of imaging structures like tunnels and mountains with accuracy in challenging outdoor environments.

Contribution

The development of a moveable muography device with high spatial resolution and robust performance in real-world conditions is a novel advancement.

Findings

Achieved approximately 190 μm spatial resolution.

Demonstrated effective operation in outdoor and harsh environments.

Validated the instrument's capability to image underground and mountain structures.

Abstract

Muon radiography is an imaging technique based on muon absorption in matter that allows measurement of internal details in hidden objects or structures. This technique relies on measuring cosmic-ray muons tracks accurately, which reflects the incoming muon flux from both the target object and the open sky. In this paper, we report on the construction of a high spatial resolution muography instrument based on Micromegas detectors. Using four layers of 400 mm ${\times}$ 400 mm Micromegas detectors, channel multiplexing circuits, and the versatile readout system, a moveable muography instrument named $\mu$STC-R400 was designed and constructed. Results show that the channel multiplexing circuits can resolve hit positions correctly, and the spatial resolution of the detector is approximately 190 ${\mu}$m. Experiments were conducted at an under-construction subway tunnel and outdoors near a mountain, demonstrating the ${\mu}$STC-R400's ability to maintain high spatial resolution outside the laboratory and its robustness in harsh environments.