POCAM
Precision Optical Calibration Module for IceCube and future neutrino telescopes
The POCAM (Precision Optical Calibration Module) is a self-monitoring, isotropic, nanosecond light source developed for the in-situ optical calibration of large-volume neutrino telescopes. Using a Teflon integrating sphere, it emits light flashes of adjustable intensity and duration while calibrating the absolute number of photons emitted per pulse — directly addressing one of the dominant systematic uncertainties in IceCube’s low-energy and oscillation physics analyses.
Over 20 next-generation POCAMs were built, calibrated, and 15 were successfully deployed as part of the IceCube Upgrade. We are now planning a POCAM-based calibration device for KM3NeT.
Further Information
Design paper: A self-monitoring precision calibration light source for the IceCube Upgrade (JINST)
POCAM paper (in preparation)
Related: POCAM in the IceCube Upgrade