BelSU Joins Forces with PandaX Project in Global Search for Dark Matter

Belgorod State University (BelSU) is making significant strides in its collaboration with major scientific initiatives. Senior researchers Alexander Chepurnov and Andrey Oleinik from the Laboratory of Advanced Radiation Research and Technology have officially joined the authoring team of the PandaX-20T mega-science project. Their participation highlights the university's commitment to groundbreaking research in the field of dark matter detection.

At the recent Second Open Meeting of the PandaX International Collaboration held in Shanghai, BelSU scientists showcased their latest research findings. The primary goal of the 20-ton detector is to achieve the lowest possible background radiation, a challenge that BelSU researchers are tackling by developing innovative industrial technology to produce ultra-low-background titanium. This unique metal, known for its exceptionally low intrinsic radiation, will be used to manufacture critical structural components of the PandaX-20T facility, enhancing its sensitivity compared to existing models.

In addition, the team is also working on a compact neutron generator designed for calibrating equipment under extremely low-background conditions. This device will enable physicists to effectively differentiate between desired particles and background noise. Chepurnov and Oleinik’s presentations on these advancements received high praise from leaders at the Jinping National Laboratory, affirming their status as key contributors to this mega-science initiative – a position solidified by their success in a competitive grant from the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

“We reported on our findings from computer modeling of the ion source in various configurations to identify the optimal setup, as well as experimental tests to assess the neutron source’s operational lifespan. These stages were initially scheduled for 2026, but we’ve largely completed them ahead of time, which garnered an extremely positive response from our Chinese colleagues,” noted Oleinik.

As the current phase of the PandaX-4T experiment concludes and preparations for upgrading the liquid xenon target detector commence, BelSU scientists have become integral members of the core PandaX-20T collaboration team. During a recent visit to the Jinping Underground Laboratory – home to the world’s deepest research site shielded from cosmic radiation – researchers discussed specific technical aspects of integrating BelSU-developed technologies into the future facility’s design and operational conditions. Their innovative solutions are deemed vital for launching one of the largest liquid xenon detectors globally, set to begin its search for dark matter particles and neutrinos at the Jinping Underground Laboratory in China.

The PandaX-20T detector is expected to commence operations in early 2028. The reliability of materials and calibration systems developed at BelSU will play a crucial role in the global quest to uncover fundamental “ghost particles” that permeate the universe and deepen our understanding of its mysteries.