The RetaGamma Project

Erich Regener and Georg Pfotzer’s experiment has become one of the biggest breakthroughs in the field of astrophysics. It allowed us to discover the Pfotzer-Regener maximum, leading to the birth of particle physics. Therefore, 90 years later, we aim to replicate and expand their observations employing modern equipment.

The proposed payload is designed to measure not only the quantity and intensity but, unlike omnidirectional projects, the direction of incidence. Understanding the spatial distribution of gamma radiation gives key insight into the violence of galactic and extragalactic rays, and potency of air showers.

The system operates within HASP’s strict mass, power, and thermal constraints: ensuring safety and reliability come first. The combined measurement hardware weighs well below the given threshold, and the power provided by the gondola should be more than sufficient. Furthermore, to mitigate the considerable temperature range the payload will experience, temperature control mechanisms will be incorporated. The onboard microcontroller will process every log, sending telemetry via the HASP interface. To avoid any single points of failure (SPOF), a microSD card will be mounted as well.

Ultimately, the collected data will validate atmospheric radiation models and provide an accurate dimensional map of Pfotzer’s maximum.