LST1, the first CTA big telescope, reveal a gamma-ray source in its first attempt
In its first attempt to detect a gamma-ray source, the Large-Sized Telescope prototype (LST-1) successfully detected its first gamma-ray signal on 23 November 2019 when it pointed to the Crab Nebula, which is considered the standard candle in very high-energy astronomy. Preliminary analyses show a very clear detection of a gamma-ray signal coming from the source, reassuring the team’s expectations that the telescope is performing as designed. These results are being discussed at the LST General Meeting that is taking place this week in Marseille, France.
The Italian contribution to the large telescope of the Cherenkov Telescope Array (CTA) is significant and articulated. The Universities and INFN Sections of Padova, Pisa, Siena, and Udine have been in front line for the construction.
Padova Group contributed to the conceptual design, in particular to the optical design and reflective surface with Prof. Mosè Mariotti and Prof. Michele Doro (Physics and Astronomy Department of the University of Padova) together with the Max Plank Institute in Munich.
For LST-1 telescope Padova built part of the azimuth movement mechanics and the carbon fiber ropes for supporting and anchoring the arch that supports the chamber. Padua has given (and is giving) a strong contribution to the realization of the software and to the data analysis strategies. The coordinator of the LST software and data analysis is from Padua: Dr. Rubén Lopez-Coto, researcher of the “Fellini” project of the Padova INFN Section (Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant agreement No. 754496).