The Gamma Spectroscopy Group at IFIC is devoted to the investigation of several aspects of the structure of atomic nuclei and the applications of Nuclear Physics to related fields.
Neutrons are central to many aspects of our work. We have developed cutting-edge instruments such as BELEN, BRIKEN, miniBELEN, HENSA, and NESTA.
HENSA is a high-efficiency neutron spectrometer based on an enhanced Bonner Sphere design, capable of measurements from thermal neutrons up to GeV energies. It is used for underground background characterization, cosmic-ray neutron mapping, and high-energy neutron measurements in medical and space-weather contexts.
We lead long-term neutron background studies at Spain’s underground laboratory (LSC) and map cosmic-ray neutrons across the country, from sea level to mountain altitudes, to understand their variation with geomagnetic conditions.
We are also investigating neutron bursts from lightning discharges in collaboration with the UPC Lightning Research Group, as well as neutron fields in pulsed accelerator environments.