Direct measurements of cosmic rays (neutron) flux at several sites in Antarctica

Cosmic rays (neutron) flux was directly measured with a portable detector in conjunction with a study examining the production of cosmic ray produced nuclides in rocks. The semi portable detector recorded neutron counts, temperature, pressure and time, integrated over a set time interval. A few small measurements were made at Scott Base, Hooper Shoulder on Mt Erebus and during the flights to and from Antarctica during 1997-1999. In the 2000 field season, the neutron detector was used extensively in the field to obtain flux vs altitude data and to provide information calibration and performance under differing conditions. Some data was obtained on the flight from Christchurch to Antarctica, from the sea ice (road to Silver City), Scott Base (near the wet lab, helo pad, garagae), near Ford Rock, Erebus-Royds slope (lower, middle and upper) and Hooper Shoulder. The instrument was operated at CosRay (the cosmic ray detector operated by McMurdo Base) to yield important calibration information for the instrument as well as providing approx 80m location for the altitude profile.