Payload 06 Information
Payload Flight Number:
Institution:
Payload Title:
Micro Scale Space Radiation Detectors - Chester’s Boys
Student Leader:
Faculty Advisor:
Payload class:
SMALL
Payload ID Number:
06
Mass:
< 1.0 kg
Current:
< 0.5A
Serial Downlink:
Analog Downlink:
NO
Serial Commands:
No
Discrete Commands:
No
Payload Specification & Integration Plan
Due:
Delivered:
Payload Integration Certification
Scheduled:
Actual:
Flight Operation Plan
Due:
Delivered:
Final Flight / Science Report
Due:
Delivered:
Abstract:
Micro scale scintillator based space radiation detectors are being developed under an REA previously granted by the Louisiana Space Consortium to investigators at Louisiana Tech University. La Tech Engineering students have developed a prototype device which is near completion and will be ready for testing by the early spring of 2008. The main components include four scintillator detectors, four photomultiplier tubes, a DC/DC converter, and a microcontroller. Two detectors will be configured for neutron radiation detection and two will be configured for high energy charged particle radiation detection. In order to assess the design and operability of the space radiation detectors, we desire to test them at high altitudes under actual cosmic radiation bombardment. Negotiations and coordination are currently underway with the NASA Aircraft Operations Division at Ellington Field in Houston TX. The plan is to conduct a flight test of the prototype on board a NASA WB-57 high altitude research aircraft. This flight will be conducted at altitudes of 60,000 feet and above which should expose the detectors to significant and measurable amounts of cosmic radiation. The next logical step is to flight test the prototype detectors at the higher altitudes available through the High Altitude Student Payload program.
Monthly Briefings:
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