SAUNA Q_B - Array: The realization of a new concept in radioxenon detection

Area of Science:

• Nuclear detection
• Environmental monitoring
• Sensor networks

Background:

• Current radioxenon detection systems are often costly and complex.
• There is a need for more accessible and scalable methods for monitoring nuclear activities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate the radioxenon Array concept for enhanced nuclear event verification.
• To demonstrate the feasibility and performance of a distributed network of radioxenon detectors.

Main Methods:

• Development of the SAUNA Q_B measurement unit.
• Modeling of a multi-unit radioxenon Array with inter-unit distances of hundreds of kilometers.
• Simulation of synthetic nuclear explosions to assess array performance.

Main Results:

• The radioxenon Array concept demonstrates high aggregated verification performance (detection, location, characterization).
• The SAUNA Q_B unit and the first operational radioxenon Array in Sweden function as expected.
• Initial data from the Swedish Array indicate performance consistent with design expectations.

Conclusions:

• The radioxenon Array represents a significant advancement in cost-effective and scalable radioxenon detection.
• Distributed networks of less sensitive, affordable units can achieve robust nuclear event verification.
• The developed SAUNA Q_B technology and the operational Array provide a promising new tool for nuclear monitoring.