Imaging shielded configurations using near-horizontal and near-vertical trajectory cosmic-ray muons

This work will describe the proof-of-concept research applying muon tomography technologies based on drift tube systems to create images using near-horizontal trajectory muons. To date, the majority of imaging studies using cosmic-ray muons have used near-vertical trajectory muons. This work compares imaging results using near-vertical trajectory muons with results using near-horizontal trajectory muons. The muon flux is much lower for the near-horizontal trajectory muons, requiring longer imaging times, but the average muon energy is higher, so the horizontal results are expected to better differentiate high-Z materials. The muon tracking system is easily configurable and can be oriented to capture near-vertical trajectory or near-horizontal trajectory cosmic-ray muons. The software can track each muon passing through the system, and generate 3D images of the scene. The experimental design and preliminary results will be presented, including the comparisons of detection efficiency, image resolution, and integration times.