Deploying telescopes underwater for detecting neutrinos is a complex task, with physicists working tirelessly on ships to deploy the detectors. These telescopes are designed to detect rare, high-energy neutrinos that are emitted from unknown regions in space. The detectors must be enormous to capture these elusive particles, and the telescopes are placed in the Mediterranean Sea to capture light generated by neutrino collisions.
The Cubic Kilometre Neutrino Telescope, or KM3NeT, consists of two telescopes made up of glass baubles arranged on vertical cables hanging in the water. Each bauble contains photomultiplier tubes that sense light produced by neutrino interactions in the seawater. Scientists deploy these detectors in campaigns lasting a month, with the goal of having hundreds of cables submerged kilometers below the surface in the Mediterranean Sea.
The Sicilian telescope focuses on studying high-energy neutrinos from space, while the French telescope observes neutrinos from the atmosphere to investigate their oscillations between different types. These underwater telescopes are similar in concept to the IceCube observatory at the South Pole, which searches for light signals in ice. Researchers use the telescopes for various scientific purposes, including studying quantum gravity effects on neutrinos and measuring neutrino oscillations.
During deployment campaigns, scientists face the challenge of making critical decisions quickly and effectively. The deployment process involves lowering strands with baubles attached to the seabed and ensuring all connections are secure. Scientists on shore review the equipment’s performance and address any issues. Once a strand is deployed, adjustments are impossible, requiring everything to be perfect from the start, similar to sending an object to the moon.
Physicists embrace the challenges of unique and unconventional locations like underwater telescopes, the South Pole, or deep underground mines to answer complex questions about the universe. While life onboard ships in the Mediterranean can be challenging, physicists often find creative ways to address obstacles while appreciating the beauty of sunsets and beaches in the surroundings. The perseverance, dedication, and innovation of physicists in deploying and operating underwater telescopes highlight their commitment to advancing our understanding of the cosmos.
