Track Imaging Cherenkov Experiment

The Track Imaging Cherenkov Experiment is an optical telescope at Argonne National Laboratory designed to detect cosmic rays from space. It combines a Fresnel lens with multiple mirrors and photomultiplier tubes that capture light signals produced when cosmic particles pass through Earth's atmosphere.

The experiment was built and installed at Argonne National Laboratory between 2004 and 2006. This marked a significant development in technology for detecting high-energy cosmic rays arriving from outer space.

Scientists from Argonne National Laboratory, University of Chicago, and University of Utah collaborate on research projects using this advanced detection system.

The system operates continuously to monitor cosmic rays in a specific high-energy range around the clock. Access to the site is typically controlled since it is part of a secure research facility, but the external structure can be viewed from designated areas.

The device uses small camera pixels that can distinguish Cherenkov signals directly from incoming cosmic ray nuclei with remarkable precision. This level of accuracy allows researchers to capture rare and extremely energetic events from space with detailed clarity.