Author:
Di Giovanni A.,Arneodo F.,Al Qasim A.,Alblooshi H.,AlKhouri F.,Alkindi L.,AlMannei A.,Almarri N.H.,Benabderrahmane M.L.,Bruno G.,Conicella V.,Fawwaz O.,Franchi G.,Kalos S.,Oikonomou P.,Perillo L.,Pittori C.,Roberts M.S.,Torres R.
Abstract
Abstract
The Rapid Acquisition Atmospheric Detector (RAAD), onboard
the LIGHT-1 3U CubeSat, detects photons between hard X-rays and soft
gamma-rays, in order to identify and characterize Terrestrial Gamma
Ray Flashes (TGFs). Three detector configurations are tested, making
use of Cerium Bromide and Lanthanum BromoChloride scintillating
crystals coupled to photomultiplier tubes or Multi-Pixel Photon
Counters, in order to identify the optimal combination for TGF
detection. High timing resolution, a short trigger window, and the
short decay time of its electronics allow RAAD to perform accurate
measurements of prompt, transient events. Here, we describe the
overview of the detection concept, the development of the front-end
acquisition electronics, as well as the ground testing and
simulation that the payload underwent prior to its launch on
December 21st, 2021. We further present an analysis of
the detector's in-orbit system behavior and some preliminary
results.
Subject
Mathematical Physics,Instrumentation