Dakalo Casca Mashao

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Ground-level neutron monitors (NMs) are essential tools for monitoring space weather events, including the detection and alerting of ground-level enhancement (GLE) events. This study presents findings from a neutron monitoring survey using two compact N50L neutron slab-based subsystems (N50L detectors encased in lead bricks, used as an analogue to a new NM design) deployed across various field sites in the United Kingdom (UK). Data from these N50L neutron slab-based subsystems were compared to readings from established NM-64 monitors with similar geomagnetic cutoff rigidities and accessed via the Neutron Monitor Database (NMDB). Observations showed that the N50L neutron slab-based subsystems’ cosmic ray (CR) count rates corresponded closely with NMDB trends, and count rates varied with altitude, latitude, and environmental factors within meters of the detectors. Key events observed during the campaign include Forbush decreases and GLE-74. The collected data will support the deployment of the new NM-2023 design initiative, specifically targeting the site of the first operational NM-2023 in the UK. Additionally, data from the N50L neutron slab-based subsystems were integrated with the University of Surrey’s Compact NM setup, enhancing GLE monitoring capabilities across UK cutoff rigidity. These preliminary measurements from the 4-NM-2023 prototype suggest it can achieve performance comparable to the 6-NM-64 monitor but with a reduced footprint, volume, mass, and cost, utilizing environmentally friendly, non-toxic gas-filled counters. A full 4-NM-2023 system is planned for deployment at the UK Met Office’s Camborne Observatory, with a 1-NM-2023 unit to be installed at Lancaster University.