Project Title

Management and operation of the IceCube Neutrino Observatory 2021-2026

Summary

Event Number:
A-333-S
NSF/OPP Award 2042807

Program Director:
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

Project Web Site:
https://icecube.wisc.edu/

Location

Supporting Stations: South Pole Station
Research Locations: South Pole Station

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

Ten participants will deploy in the 2022-23 season, including two participants who will winter-over. On-Ice activities include maintenance and operations improvements to the existing IceCube infrastructure including: -- South Pole Station OS / Puppet upgrade -- On-ice DAQ support and DOMHub maintenance -- ICL rack space consolidation -- Retro JADE archival disks -- IceTop marker pole extensions and maintenance -- IceTop enhancement surface array maintenance -- Mini wind turbine maintenance -- Cherenkov telescope maintenance -- ARA surface radio pulsing calibration (coordinated with other Dark Sector stakeholders) -- ARA-2 and ARA-4 vault extraction and electronics retro (ASC heavy equipment and/or RA support for excavation requested)

Deploying Team Members