Optimization of a Muon Detection System with Silicon Photomultiplier Sensors (SiPM)

The objective of this work is to design and implement two cosmic ray detection systems to analyze the impact of the South Atlantic Magnetic Anomaly on the observed incoming particle rate. The implemented detection systems utilize scintillating materials to emit photons when ionizing particles pass through them. These photons are captured by silicon photomultiplier sensors (SiPM), generating signals that are then conditioned by an electronic board. The board can accommodate up to 16 sensors grouped in sets of 4. The signals are amplified, compared with a reference, and digitized using a hysteresis comparator and time stretcher. An FPGA device has been programmed to process the signals, control the duty point, and test the detector's timing. The detection system consists of two independent configurations. The first configuration includes three stacked 50 cm x 50 cm scintillators that can be rotated with respect to the zenith angle. The second configuration consists of four 25 cm x 25 cm scintillators that can be used as two separate detectors. The measurements have been carefully adjusted to the expected muon distribution and exhibit similar behavior to other detectors in the Mechanics and Energy laboratory. Furthermore, the new architecture has successfully observed interesting space weather events, validating all detection systems.