Low Background Micromegas in CAST
Abstract
Solar axions could be converted into x-rays inside the strong magnetic field of an axion helioscope, triggering the detection of this elusive particle. Low background x-ray detectors are an essential component for the sensitivity of these searches. We report on the latest developments of the Micromegas detectors for the CERN Axion Solar Telescope (CAST), including technological pathfinder activities for the future International Axion Observatory (IAXO). The use of low background techniques and the application of discrimination algorithms based on the high granularity of the readout have led to background levels below 10 counts/keV/cm/s, more than a factor 100 lower than the first generation of Micromegas detectors. The best levels achieved at the Canfranc Underground Laboratory (LSC) are as low as 10 counts/keV/cm/s, showing good prospects for the application of this technology in IAXO. The current background model, based on underground and surface measurements, is presented, as well as the strategies to further reduce the background level. Finally, we will describe the R&D paths to achieve sub-keV energy thresholds, which could broaden the physics case of axion helioscopes.
Cite
@article{arxiv.1503.05107,
title = {Low Background Micromegas in CAST},
author = {J. G. Garza and S. Aune and D. Calvet and J. F. Castel and F. E. Christensen and T. Dafni and M. Davenport and T. Decker and E. Ferrer-Ribas and J. Galán and J. A. García and I. Giomataris and R. M. Hill and F. J. Iguaz and I. G. Irastorza and A. C. Jakobsen and D. Jourde and H. Mirallas and I. Ortega and T. Papaevangelou and M. J. Pivovaroff and J. Ruz and A. Tomás and T. Vafeiadis and J. K. Vogel},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:1503.05107},
year = {2015}
}
Comments
6 pages, 3 figures, Large TPC Conference 2014, Paris