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High Energy Radiation Detection During Solar Eclipse

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Abstract

The April 8th, 2024 Total Solar Eclipse presented a unique opportunity to investigate how the eclipse affects UV and high energy particle radiation. To record relevant data, the team designed a cost-effective open-source payload, consisting of a Geiger Muller Counter, two UV photodiode sensors, a pressure sensor, and two temperature sensors. These sensors enable the payload to record UV index, high energy particle counts and temperature with respect to the altitude. The payload was launched on a weather balloon before totality to observe the effect of the eclipse on these quantities. The payload successfully logged data at intervals of approximately 30 seconds but stopped logging shortly before totality. The payload did demonstrate that the UV index generally decreased with altitude, leading up to the eclipse. High energy particle counts generally increased with altitude. The payload also successfully generated a temperature profile varying with altitude. The computer program and parts list for this payload have been made available for open-source use.  

Keywords: eclipse, radiation, high altitude balloon, open-source

How to Cite:

Syed, I., Castro Cillis, L., Aadan, I., Whiten, K. & Maas, M., (2024) “High Energy Radiation Detection During Solar Eclipse”, Academic High Altitude Conference 2024(2). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/ahac.18052