Solar panels as air Cherenkov detectors for extremely high energy cosmic rays

TL;DR

This paper explores using solar panels as low-cost air Cherenkov detectors to observe extremely high energy cosmic rays, evaluating their effectiveness through experimental measurements and sensitivity analysis.

Contribution

It introduces a novel application of solar panels as Cherenkov detectors for cosmic rays, with experimental validation and sensitivity assessment.

Findings

Solar panels can detect Cherenkov photon pulses from high-energy cosmic rays.

Experimental results show promising sensitivity levels.

Potential for cost-effective cosmic ray detection methods.

Abstract

Increasing interest towards the observation of the highest energy cosmic rays has motivated the development of new detection techniques. The properties of the Cherenkov photon pulse emitted in the atmosphere by these very rare particles indicate low-cost semiconductor detectors as good candidates for their optical read-out. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the viability of solar panels for this purpose. The experimental framework resulting from measurements performed with suitably-designed solar cells and large conventional photovoltaic areas is presented. A discussion on the obtained and achievable sensitivities follows.