Design and test of solid state differential radiation counter for aerospace mission

Abstract

This dissertation would mainly focus on the enhancement for the SUGAR (Sydney University Gamma Ray detector) with a purpose to detect and count proton radiations. Protons are the major component of cosmic rays and its effect both in primary cosmic ray or secondary air showers is inevitable. The current version of dosimeter is built mainly for gamma rays, and therefore an improved version may be needed to close the gap. However, the principle of the current dosimeter design is innately unable to capture any Baryon. To address this issue, a technique of attaching a shield for creating the possibility of proton induced gamma rays is applied. The design and principle of SUGAR is discussed, and its experiment will be used as an example for this dissertation design. Then, the theories such as particle interactions and proton induced cascade, and changes made to the new design such as shield material and thickness selection are explained. The design of new dosimeter is illustrated in detail. Two separate tests will be conducted, and data are collected and analysed. This paper compares the data obtained from both balloon launches and verifies the methodical design approach of this new detector. Limitations and further possible improvement are discussed at the last.