The test and calibration system for the Elementary Cells of the Cherenkov Camera in the PBR Mission

TL;DR

This paper presents a calibration system for Silicon Photo-Multiplier arrays used in Cherenkov Camera detectors for space-based astrophysics, including protocols, setup, and preliminary results.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive calibration and testing system for Silicon Photo-Multiplier arrays tailored for space applications in Cherenkov telescopes.

Findings

Calibration protocol for SiPMs specified and tested.

Preliminary measurements on Elementary Cell reported.

System setup for mass testing of SiPM arrays described.

Abstract

The development of detectors using Silicon Photo-Multipliers for acquisition of fast light signals coming from Cherenkov and fluorescence emissions started by particle showers in the terrestrial atmosphere is the main goal of the Italian ASI/INFN Agreement n.2021-8-HH.2-2022, named "ASI/INFN_EUSO-SPB2", in view of the next generation of telescopes in balloon-borne and space-based experiments. A survey of performances of different Silicon Photo-Multipliers available on the market has been performed to identify the best sensors for space applications, where high thermal excursions and environmental radiation must be mainly taken into account in contrast to ground-based experiments. In particular, a characterization protocol for Silicon Photo-Multiplier qualification has been specified to Hamamatsu S13161-3050AE-08 sensor ($8 \times 8$) array in the $30 \, \textrm{C}^{\circ}$ down to $-40 \, \textrm{C}^{\circ}$ temperature range. The protocol specifies measurements of break-down voltage, quenching resistance, gain, dark count rate and the probability of cross-talk. These parameters have been measured as a function of temperature at fixed over-voltage. Based on these previous measurements, a dedicated set-up is under completion for performing massive tests to validate and calibrate 32 Silicon Photo-Multipliers (Hamamatsu S13361-3050 series, 64 channels each), composing the (2048 pixels, $12^{\circ} \times 6^{\circ}$ field of view) Focal Surface of the Cherenkov Camera that will fly on the POEMMA-Balloon with Radio mission. The technical details and description of this system and the procedural steps implemented are reported, preliminary measurements on the first Elementary Cell are also shown.