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Deploying KM3NeT: Underwater Neutrino Telescope

  • 26 Dec 2024 11:19 AM
  • KM3NeT, neutrino telescope, neutrino detection, underwater exploration

The KM3NeT (Cubic Kilometre Neutrino Telescope) is an innovative scientific project aimed at detecting high-energy neutrinos in the Mediterranean Sea. This project involves deploying two massive underwater telescopes equipped with photomultiplier tubes to capture light from neutrinos interacting with seawater. One telescope is located off the coast of Sicily to observe cosmic neutrinos, while the other off the French coast focuses on studying atmospheric neutrinos and their oscillations.

The deployment of these telescopes presents considerable challenges, with long detector strands resembling "pearls" being lowered into the deep sea. These telescopes are located several kilometers below the surface, where harsh marine conditions add complexity to the setup. Scientists use remotely operated submersibles to ensure proper installation and maintenance of the equipment.

Despite the challenges, the partially operational KM3NeT telescopes are already providing valuable data. Insights from the project are expected to contribute to advancements in particle physics, particularly in the study of neutrinos' fundamental properties and quantum gravity effects. The project is poised to provide transformative information on the universe’s most energetic and mysterious phenomena.

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