Theoretical zenith angle distribution of atmospheric MeV gamma radiation at high balloon altitudes

Details Theoretical zenith angle distribution of atmospheric MeV gamma radiation at high balloon altitudes Theoretical zenith angle distribution of atmospheric MeV gamma radiation at high balloon altitudes

Jul 1977

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1977esasp.124..343g&link_type=abstract

In ESA Recent Advan. in Gamma-Ray Astronomy p 343-350 (SEE N78-11899 02-88)

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Astronomy

1

Atmospheric Radiation, Gamma Rays, High Altitude Balloons, Radiation Distribution, Bremsstrahlung, Compton Effect, High Altitude, Monte Carlo Method, Zenith

Scientific paper

A simple model was developed in order to interpret the recently measured zenith angle distribution of MeV gamma-rays in the upper atmosphere, which shows a maximum of intensity at angles around 120 deg (upward moving direction). Because gamma-ray production by electron bremsstrahlung is by far the most important process in this energy range, an attempt was made to derive the gamma-ray source functions within the atmosphere from measured electron fluxes. The transport of gamma-rays from their source position to the detector altitude was simulated in a Monte Carlo calculation. The calculation shows that the observed maximum around zenith angles of 120 deg is caused by those gamma-rays which were originally ejected preferentially in the horizontal direction but which were Compton-scattered on their way to the detector. Because the mean Compton scattering angle and the scattering probability depend on energy, the maximum in the zenith angle distribution varies with energy: with increasing energy it is more and more shifted towards 90 deg.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Theoretical zenith angle distribution of atmospheric MeV gamma radiation at high balloon altitudes does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Theoretical zenith angle distribution of atmospheric MeV gamma radiation at high balloon altitudes, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Theoretical zenith angle distribution of atmospheric MeV gamma radiation at high balloon altitudes will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1560369