Multi-messenger observations of thunderstorm-related bursts of cosmic rays

Abstract

Abstract We present the facilities of the Aragats Space Environmental Center in Armenia used during multi-year observations of the thunderstorm ground enhancements (TGEs) and corresponding environmental parameters. We analyze the characteristics of the detectors, operated on Aragats, and describe the coordinated detection of TGEs by the network of scintillators, field meters, and weather stations. By using a fast synchronized data acquisition system, we reveal correlations of the multivariate data on time scales from nanoseconds to minutes, which allow us to gain insight into the TGE and lightning origin and their interrelations. Also, we demonstrate how different coincidences of multilayered detector operation can select various species of secondary cosmic rays.