DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND DEPLOYMENT OF AN AUTONOMOUS LINEAR STRING OF NEUTRINO DETECTORS AT LARGE SEA DEPTH FOR THE STUDY OF GRBS

One of the major challenges in modern Astrophysics is the understanding of the processes involved in Gamma Ray Bursts (GRBs). Recent observations suggest that the energy released in the most energetic GRBs is of the order of the sun rest mass, and the total luminous energy many million times greater than that of supernovae and the total luminosity of the Milky Way. Many theoretical models predict the simultaneous emission of very high energy neutrinos. Observing these neutrinos, in time with the GRB would contribute enormously to our understanding of the production mechanism of the GRBs and the processes involved.

The expected neutrino flux from GRBs requires detectors much larger than those existing as well as the proposed KM3NeT underwater neutrino telescope, an option which is unrealistic due to the huge financial cost. The anticipated cost, however, can be greatly reduced by using autonomous (i.e. not connected to the shore) strings of detection units (photomultipliers) used in temporal coincidence with satellite observations of GRBs. A detector consisting of such autonomous devices can cover the required volume at a reasonable cost and can operate on its own or as an extension of the KM3NeT telescope.

The aim of this proposal is the study, design, implementation and testing of one such autonomous string of PMTs, able to operate without intervention in terms of energy and data recording sufficiency for a period of at least two years. This device is the immediate deliverable and result of the proposed project.

In accordance to normal project procedures, the work is organized in 7 Workpackages (WP) as follows:

1. Project management,
2. Study of GRB signal detector optimization,
3. Specifications of the device,
4. Design and construction of the string,
5. Field tests,
6. Oceanographic studies in the NESTOR site and
7. Dissemination of results.