Description
The study of rare particle interactions is fertile ground in the search for beyond-Standard-Model physics. Experimental searches of this nature are extremely challenging, typically operating for years to measure a very small sample of signal events. It is therefore imperative to employ detection technologies that extract as much information as possible, to maximise the scientific value of the signal and aid background rejection. Directional detectors offer unparalleled event information by recording the 3D topology of particle events. The CYGNUS-Oz collaboration is currently developing gas time projection chambers that are capable of servicing our final goal of a large directional rare-event experiment.
In this talk, I will outline the physics case for directional detection, including its well-known ability in WIMP dark matter searches to overcome the neutrino fog, as well opportunities in neutrino physics and other areas. Emphasis will be placed on the performance requirements for the detection technology, and the current state-of-the-art. I will then give an overview of how the CYGNUS-Oz research and development activities are addressing these experimental challenges, and our progress towards a prototype detection module for a future large experiment.
| I am the presenting author | Yes |
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