Bonn 2010 – scientific programme

Parts | Days | Selection | Search | Downloads | Help

T: Fachverband Teilchenphysik

T 96: Gammaastronomie V

T 96.1: Group Report

Friday, March 19, 2010, 14:00–14:20, HG VII

The FACT camera project, a Novel Camera Type for Very High Energy (VHE) Gamma Astronomy with Imaging Air Cherenkov Telescopes — •Dominik Neise — TU - Dortmund, Dortmund, Deutschland

Recent progress in the field of photon detectors allows the development of novel camera types for VHE gamma astronomy with Imaging Air Cherenkov Telescopes.

We are currently constructing a first full size camera, dubbed FACT (First Avalanche-Photodiode Camera Test) based on the novel Geigermode avalanche photodiodes (G-APD). These semiconductor photon detectors show several advanced features compared to conventional photomultiplier tubes, such as a significantly higher photon detection efficiency (PDE), high compactness, insensitivity against magnetic fields etc. In addition an entirely embedded new type of data acquisition as well as trigger system based on the novel domino ring sampling chip (DRS4) is being developed.

The camera will be integral part of the new DWARF telescope located on the Canary island La Palma using the renovated HEGRA CT3 mount. DWARF is dedicated for long-term monitoring and observations of bright active galactic nuclei.

A report about the successful prototype runs as well as about the concept and current status of the camera development will be given.