Next-Generation Solar Neutron Tracker (SONTRAC)

The goal of the Next-generation SOlar Neutron TRACking (SONTRAC) proposal is to advance the current instrument development to provide a fully-integrated 6.4x6.4x16 cm3 prototype that demonstrates suitability for SmallSAT opportunities by the end of this three-year program. SONTRAC is based on state-of-the-art techniques for particle tracking using highly segmented scintillating fibers, coupled to silicon photomultipliers, and subsequently processed with modern ASICs. The proposed work is a natural follow-on to our prior Instrument Technology Development (ITD) award (FY20). The primary science motivation of SONTRAC is to measure solar neutrons, which are produced at the solar surface by the interaction between accelerated ions and the solar atmosphere and subsequently propagate to 1 AU unhindered by the interplanetary magnetic field. The measurement of solar neutrons provides a game-changing observation in a previously poorly measured radiation channel, leading to a better understanding of particle acceleration at the Sun. Neutrons also represent an important component of space weather, affecting both satellite operations and the health of astronauts and flight crews. A concomitant scientific goal is the measurement of terrestrial and lunar albedo neutrons, which constitute an important component of the near-Earth radiation environment and a background for solar neutron observations. SONTRAC is a pathfinder for future inner heliospheric SmallSATs and Lunar Gateway opportunities as a semi-permanent monitor on the lunar surface and in orbit. The lunar surface provides a unique vantage point to continuously monitor, over extended periods of time, neutrons and solar energetic particles (SEPs) generated by solar eruptive events and measure the effects of energetic particles on the lunar surface and the Earth's atmosphere. The current program focuses on four key technology goals: (1) Expand the front-end electronics to incorporate closely-packed linear arrays of silicon photomultipliers, (2) Develop a new fiber bundle composed of closely-packed fiber ribbons providing a uniform response to neutrons, (3) Develop an expanded 8-ASIC radiation tolerant digital processing unit, and (4) Demonstrate a fully integrated (6.4x6.4x16 cm3) SONTRAC with accelerator beam tests.

Support NASA's Heliophysics strategic science objectives to understand the Sun and its interactions with Earth and the solar system, including space weather. This will be achieved by developing/demonstrating instrumentation technology necessary to address the following science goals: Explore the physical processes in the space environment from the Sun to the Earth and throughout the solar system; Advance our understanding of the connections that link the Sun, the Earth, planetary space environments, and the outer reaches of our solar system; Develop the knowledge and capability to detect and predict extreme conditions in space to protect life and society and to safeguard human and robotic explorers beyond Earth.

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