From a Network to a Networking: The Evolution of the Latin American Giant Observatory

TL;DR

LAGO is a versatile, low-cost detector network in Latin America that has evolved from gamma-ray burst detection to multidisciplinary research, simulation, education, and practical applications like volcano muography and space weather monitoring.

Contribution

The paper introduces the ARTI-MEIGA simulation framework and highlights new applications such as volcano muography and neutron hydrometry within the LAGO project.

Findings

Successful deployment of detectors across diverse altitudes and conditions

Development of the ARTI-MEIGA simulation framework for site-specific modeling

Implementation of new applications like volcano muography and space weather monitoring

Abstract

The Latin American Giant Observatory (LAGO) is a collaborative initiative that deploys a network of low-cost, autonomous Water Cherenkov Detectors across Latin America and Spain. Initially focused on detecting gamma-ray bursts at high-altitude sites, LAGO has evolved into a multidisciplinary forum for astroparticle physics, space weather studies, and environmental monitoring. Its detectors operate from sea level to over 4300 meters above sea level (m a.s.l.) in diverse geomagnetic and atmospheric conditions. The ARTI-MEIGA simulation framework is a key development that models the entire cosmic-ray interaction chain, enabling site-specific simulations to be integrated into FAIR-compliant workflows. LAGO also plays a significant role in regional education and training through partnerships with ERASMUS+ projects, positioning itself as a hub for research capacity building. New contributions emerging from the collaboration include volcano muography, neutron hydrometry for precision agriculture, and space weather monitoring in the South Atlantic Magnetic Anomaly. LAGO demonstrates how Cherenkov-based detection and open science can drive scientific discovery and practical innovation.