Project Title

Management and operation of the IceCube Neutrino Observatory 2021-2026

Summary

Event Number:
A-333-S

Program Manager:
Dr. Vladimir Papitashvili

ASC POC/Implementer:
Paul Sullivan / Sheryl Seagraves / Leah Street

Principal Investigator(s)

Dr. Francis Halzen
halzen@icecube.wisc.edu
University of Wisconsin Madison
Department of Physics
Madison, Wisconsin

Location

Supporting Stations: South Pole Station
Research Locations: IceCube Lab (ICL)

Description

The IceCube neutrino telescope transformed a cubic kilometer of deep ice into a Cherenkov detector of high-energy particles of the cosmic origin. The project is an international collaboration, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison serves as the host institution providing operations, oversight, and staffing for this NSF multi-user facility. IceCube's broad science program has opened a previously unexplored window on the universe, using neutrinos as cosmic messengers, and has emerged as a particle physics detector providing precision measurements in the neutrino sector. The goal of IceCube management and operational support is to ensure the reliable operation of the IceCube Neutrino Observatory and enable the production of physics-quality data in a reliable and cost-effective manner.

Field Season Overview

NSF has reduced on-Ice staffing levels during the 2020-21 season due to the COVID-19 virus. The IceCube project will only deploy two grantees that will work during the austral summer and winter seasons. The existing winterover crew will stay longer during the summer to assist with training and transitioning. At a maximum, there will be four IceCube grantees on station.