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The extreme energy events project: Bring science inside schools
Silvia Pisano1,2,
1Museo Storico della Fisica e Centro Studi e Ricerche "Enrico Fermi", Via Panisperna, 89a, 00184 Roma, Italy.
European Physical Journal Plus
|November 2, 2022
Summary
The Extreme Energy Events Project uses citizen science and Multigap-Resistive Plate Chamber detectors to study cosmic ray physics. Students and professors collaborate on detector construction, data collection, and analysis.
Area of Science:
- Cosmic ray physics
- Particle astrophysics
- Citizen science in physics education
Background:
- The Extreme Energy Events Project (EEE) is an experiment focused on cosmic ray physics.
- It utilizes a network of approximately 60 detectors employing Multigap-Resistive Plate Chamber (MRPC) technology.
- Detectors are strategically located throughout Italy and at CERN, with a significant portion installed in high-school buildings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate cosmic ray physics through a distributed network of detectors.
- To foster scientific engagement and education by involving students and professors in a real research project.
- To leverage citizen science for continuous monitoring and data acquisition.
Main Methods:
- Deployment of about 60 Multigap-Resistive Plate Chamber (MRPC) detectors.
- Installation of detectors in high-school facilities across Italy and at CERN.
- Collaborative involvement of students and professors in all scientific process stages.
Main Results:
- Successful establishment of a distributed cosmic ray detection network.
- Active participation of students in detector construction, installation, data collection, and analysis.
- Generation of scientific results through collaborative efforts.
Conclusions:
- The Extreme Energy Events Project demonstrates the viability of citizen science in advancing cosmic ray physics research.
- The project effectively integrates scientific investigation with high school education, enhancing student learning and engagement.
- The MRPC technology network provides a valuable platform for ongoing cosmic ray studies and scientific outreach.
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