Collaboration for the Analysis of Photonic and Ionic Bursts and Radiation from Barcelona
A Student Satellite to Explore the Mysteries of the Energetic Cosmos
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What Is CAPIBARA and What We Aim For
CAPIBARA is a collaboration of young students with the aim to explore the high-energy Universe it all its facets, including ionic and photonic radiation. We propose two space missions to explore cosmic rays (ionic) and gamma/X-rays (photonic) and advance our understanding of the high energy astrophysical phenomena, quantum and particle physics, and Earth’s physics. Furthermore, we aim to boost these fields and research making our data public and inspiring other young students to have an active role in research.
We have applied to the SPARK program by PLD Space, which gives the opportunity to students and schools to launch their satellite with their Miura 5 rocket.
Missions
We have a dual goal (ionic and photonic radiation), each with specific characteristics, challenges, and needs. To optimize and have the best science quality possible, CAPIBARA is currently developing two missions.
This mission will focus on the goal of detecting cosmic rays, the ionic high-energy radiation. It will feature a particle detector capable of detecting protons and alpha-particles, which account for the 97% of the cosmic ray particles in Earth orbit.
This mission will focus on the goal of observing the light emission of the high-energy Universe. It will have a wide-field gamma-ray detector (1-10,000 MeV) for detecting high-energy transients, as well as an X_ray observatory for rapid follow-up observations. This will be the first mission to incorporate gamma-ray and X-ray transient monitoring in the same satellite and will proof the concept of intensity interferometry for high-energy transient localization.
Research Initiatives
We have developed a set of research lines we want to focus inside the Collaboration. Hoewver, we are open to any collaboration regarding the scientific outcomes of the missions (contact us!) and we will make all of our data public for the research community.
Initially, we applied to the SPARK program, however, in the end our goals and plans did not align. Here's the complete application containing some of the goals and scientific initiatives, although some information might be outdated.
In preparation paper on the necessity of an additional gamma-ray telescope in the context of current and future gamma-ray and X-ray observation capabilities and availability.
This is a presentation of the project held by our project leader, Joan, at the CosmoCarxa, an initiatives by the Explainers community of the CosmoCaixa Science Museum to share science and career advice by explainers for explainers.
Meet the Team
We’re a dedicated group of high school students, each with unique perspectives and skills, who are embarking on an ambitious mission. Our team’s interests span a wide range of fields, including astrophysics, particle physics, and aerospace engineering. Together, we’re determined to push the boundaries of knowledge and explore the mysteries of the cosmos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CAPIBARA? Who is involved? ▼
CAPIBARA is a scientific collaboration focused on studying the high-energy universe through two space missions. It brings together young students working to understand the cosmos using ions (cosmic rays) and photons (gamma/X-rays).
Why do we need two missions? ▼
Different cosmic messengers (ions and photons) provide complementary information about high-energy astrophysical events. In addition, separating the goals makes it more manageable to optimize each mission for its detectors and needs.
Why do we need space missions instead of ground-based telescopes? ▼
Earth's atmosphere blocks many high-energy particles and photons. Ground-based detectors study some cosmic rays, but space missions allow us to directly detect these signals without atmospheric interference.
How do young students contribute to CAPIBARA? ▼
The organization is fully integrated and run by young students in every aspect. At CAPIBARA, we want to show what young researchers are capable of and encourage other students to have an active role in science and research. Science isn't just for some, it's for all!
How can these missions teach us about the Universe? ▼
How cosmic rays are produced and accelerated by magnetic fields?
What is the nature of extreme astrophysical phenomena like black holes or neutron stars?
What do distant high-energy transients tell us about the early Universe?
What makes CAPIBARA unique compared to other space missions? ▼
CAPIBARA is unique because it is run by young students, emphasizing hands-on experience and innovation. It also focuses on combining insights from cosmic rays and high-energy photons to provide a more complete picture of the universe.
What challenges do these space missions face? ▼
Space missions encounter challenges such as radiation exposure, limited power supply, and the need for precise instrumentation. Overcoming these requires innovative engineering and problem-solving.
How can students get involved with CAPIBARA? ▼
CAPIBARA is open to new student members (both high school and undergraduate). If you are passionate about space science or astrophysics, we are waiting for you! In addition, we are preparing school materials about astronomy and astrophysics, as well as are open to giving talks or conducting workshops at schools or other events.
How is the data collected by CAPIBARA missions used? ▼
Data is collected differently for the two space missions. We will analyze cosmic ray data as well as x-ray and gamma-ray images and spectra. We are currently working on the data publication system to share this data with the entire community.
How does CAPIBARA collaborate with other organizations? ▼
CAPIBARA partners with universities, research institutions, and space agencies to leverage expertise, share resources, and maximize the scientific output of its missions. Student members have participate and conduct internships at research institutes, bringing expertise, knowledge, and experience to the group.
What kind of discoveries could CAPIBARA potentially make? ▼
CAPIBARA aims to uncover insights about the nature of solar cosmic rays and solar weather, as well as the evolution of the Universe and the physics of high-energy phenomena like black hole jets.
How is CAPIBARA funded? ▼
CAPIBARA is a new initiative and we are currently working without funding. However, we are planning diverse actions in order to cover the costs of the instruments. If you would want to fund us, please send us an email with the contact below.
Why is studying high-energy phenomena important for science? ▼
High-energy phenomena help us understand the most extreme environments in the universe, offering clues about fundamental physics, cosmic evolution, and the limits of our current scientific models.
Interested in Learning More?
Contact us for more details on the project and our research.
