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Research and Development for The Auger Observatory

Peter O. MazurDirector’s Review

December 15, 2011

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The Research and Development Array(RDA)

• Begun to develop technologies for a possible Auger North.

• When Auger North became improbable, a substantial investment had already been made by many countries.

• The RDA was refocused to advance the goals of Auger in Argentina and prepare for possible future enhancements to it.

• Items exclusively valuable for Auger North were dropped, e.g., development of thermal insulation systems for the water tanks.

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RDA Objectives• Develop a new Communications system (most important)

– A new Auger Comms system is required for the new Enhancements. Although Comms refinements are in progress for the Enhancements, this could provide a backup.

– Provides a capability for other, newer options.• Develop new electronics

– New electronics for single PMT, with better dynamic range, faster ADC, better calibration software and hardware.

• Develop new SD with a single PMT– Tank designed with a central hatch.– Tank structure needs to support a taller mast for the RDA– New PMT enclosure, better seals for reduced corrosion probability

• Test new solar power system components– 12 V system– New VRLA-AGM type battery

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The RDA in Southeast Colorado

The RDA consists of:10 tanks7 standalone communications masts4 towers, including a concentrator

Deployment statusAll SDs deployed with power system• Electronics tested on one tank• Electronics ready at MinesAll masts deployed with power systemAll towers deployed with power system

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Surface Detector withthree hatches for three PMTs.

RDA Surface Detector For a single, central PMT

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RDA Surface Detector. Note extra tall communications mast.

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Fermilab Participation

• All involved in design and planning for the RDA.• Peter Mazur and Carlos Escobar developed and procured

tanks. (Made in Brazil.)• Peter Mazur (and PPD FEA engineer and drafter) designed

tanks, brackets and masts, standalone masts. POM also designed solar power system.

• Peter Mazur involved in assembly and deployment.• Peter Kasper adapted Auger central data acquisition system

for RDA use.• Fermilab Group standing by to support RDA operations as

needed.