An in situ measurement of the radio-frequency attenuation in ice at Summit Station, Greenland

作者:Avva Jessica; Kovac John M; Miki Christian; Saltzberg David; Vieregg Abigail G*
来源:Journal of Glaciology, 2015, 61(229): 1005-1011.
DOI:10.3189/2015JoG15J057

摘要

We report an in situ measurement of the electric field attenuation length L-alpha at radio frequencies for the bulk ice at Summit Station, Greenland, made by broadcasting radio-frequency signals vertically through the ice and measuring the relative power in the return ground bounce signal. We find the depth-averaged field attenuation length to be < L-alpha > = 947(-85)(+92) m at 75 MHz. While this measurement has clear radioglaciological applications, the radio clarity of the ice also has implications for the detection of ultra-high energy (UHE) astrophysical particles via their radio emission in dielectric media such as ice. Assuming a reliable extrapolation to higher frequencies, the measured attenuation length at Summit Station is comparable to previously measured radio-frequency attenuation lengths at candidate particle detector sites around the world, and strengthens the case for Summit Station as a promising northern site for UHE neutrino detection.

  • 出版日期2015