Mixed Layer Depth Measurement with Muon Tomography
Project Abstract:
Mixed layer is the top layer of the oceans and seas which is in contact with the atmosphere. It is the most important layer for ecological purposes: It controls the heat and carbon exchange with the atmosphere and houses most of the primary production in the oceans. Changes in the depth of it can have global impacts on the climate and biological diversity. The current mixed layer depth measurements have limited accuracy or practicality. This project (MILADE) proposes a novel way to measure the mixed layer depth, via muon tomography. In the atmosphere, muons are created as secondary products of the interactions of the cosmic rays and atmospheric molecules. The penetration depth of the atmospheric muons depends on the density of the medium. The mixed layer has a less density compared to the rest of the sea. Therefore, changes in the mixed layer depth can be measured by recording muon counts at the water surface and under water. The accurate measurement of mixed layer depth will have important impacts on our understanding of the changes in the seas and allow more accurate forecast to be made for weather, climate and marine life. At the end of the project a prototype measurement system will be produced.