Speaker
Description
The radiation environment in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) differs significantly from conditions on Earth. While direct measurements of radiation are already being conducted, new methods are emerging. One such method involves utilizing Timepix-based radiation monitors, developed by Advacam s.r.o. These advanced devices provide insights not only into radiation dose and flux but also particle composition, Linear Energy Transfer (LET), directionality, and more.
Such detailed information about the radiation environment is crucial for monitoring and eventually forecasting space weather. A precise forecast of space weather is key for enhancing the protection of human crews as well as safeguarding any sensitive payloads.
One of these advanced Timepix-based radiation monitors, equipped with a unique CdTe sensor material, is mounted on the CubeSat mission VZLUSAT-2, which was launched in 2022 [1]. Using the Timepix camera, continuous monitoring of high radiation areas, such as the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA) and polar regions, has been conducted over the past two years. The acquired data improves our understanding of the radiation field composition in these regions and its evolution over time. The unique ability of Timepix device, to capture single events, in conjunction with one of a kind CdTe sensor material, allows us to detect even high-energy particles (HEP) up to units of GeV.
Compared with other Timepix-based monitors using different sensor materials, such as those from the VZLUSAT-1 mission [2], it is possible to acquire a spectral map of the LEO radiation situation. These datasets serve as invaluable resources for the development and training of artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms for particle recognition and space weather forecasting.
This study aims to showcase the advancements made in characterizing the radiation environment in LEO using Timepix-based radiation monitors and to clarify their significance in advancing our understanding of space weather phenomena and enhancing the safety of space missions.
[1] T. Baca et al, Miniaturized X-ray telescope for VZLUSAT-1 nanosatellite with Timepix detector, 2016, JINST 11 C10007
[2] C. Granja et al, Directional-Sensitive X-ray/Gamma-ray Imager on Board the VZLUSAT-2 CubeSat for Wide Field-of-View Observation of GRBs in Low Earth Orbit, 2022, Universe. 8. 241. 10.3390/universe8040241.
