Mobile neutron monitor for latitude cosmic ray monitoring

TL;DR

This paper presents a modernized, portable neutron monitor designed for continuous cosmic ray flux monitoring and latitude measurements, suitable for expeditionary and space weather research.

Contribution

It introduces a compact, stable neutron monitor based on a boron counter and microprocessor data acquisition, optimized for field cosmic ray studies.

Findings

The upgraded monitor performs comparably to standard models.

It is suitable for expeditionary use with minimal maintenance.

Test trials confirmed stability and ease of operation.

Abstract

Neutron monitors are a standard tool for high-precision continuous monitoring of galactic cosmic ray flux variations arising from variations in heliospheric conditions and solar activity for space weather applications. These measurements form the basis for solving the inverse problem of determining the cosmic ray anisotropy vector beyond the magnetosphere. To support such studies, periodic latitude measurements are necessary to determine the coupling functions of primary and secondary cosmic rays variations. The aim of this work is to develop and characterize a modernized standard neutron monitor based on a CHM-15 boron thermal neutron counter and a data acquisition system designed for marine expeditionary studies of cosmic ray variations. Modern nuclear physics experimental methods and the principles of microprocessor-based data acquisition systems were used to solve this problem. The results of test trials and of continuous monitoring showed that the characteristics of the upgraded and standard neutron monitor are similar, and the ease of use, compactness, and stability allow us to conclude that the mobile neutron detector can be used in expeditionary conditions with limited access for maintenance personnel.