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The search for dark matter in the universe. 96% of the universes mass is unaccounted for!
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The search for dark matter in the universe. 96% of the universes mass is unaccounted for!

soudanundergroundminestatepark

  • Soudan [pronounced SUE-DAN] Mine was a major supplier of iron ore from 1884 to 1962. The mine extends to a depth of 2341 feet. While it is no longer mined for ore, the 27th level is the home to the High Energy Physics Lab where the MINOS (Main Injector Neutrino Oscillation Search.) and CDMS (Cryogenic Dark Matter Search) experiments.
  • The wheel house.
  • Terry with hard hat heading to the cage.
  • At the bottom of the mine shaft, after the 3 minute ride down in the cage.
  • Heading to the physics lab.
  • The physics lab excavation.
  • The Soudan mine was chosen for the MINOS experiment because it's depth helps filter out cosmic radiation, which will aid with neutrino detection.
  • Bats also make their home in the mine.
  • The physics lab.
  • The neutrino detection plates and a mural depicting the experiments goals.
  • Information on neutrinos.
  • The MINOS experiment. Neutrinos are fired from a particle accelerator located near Chicago. The neutrinos pass through the earth to the 486 individual 1/2 inch thick steel detection plates. The particles then exit the earth near the Canadian border and continue into space.
  • Physics lab.
  • Things to do in the lab.
  • The search for dark matter in the universe. 96% of the universes mass is unaccounted for!
  • Description of the CDMS project. This experiment uses silicon and germanium dectectors at a fraction of a degree above absolute zero, the temperature where atomic motion ceases, to search for the existance of dark matter in the universe.
  • Entering the cage for our decent.
  • The dry house.
  • The wheel house.
  • The mine tour train ride.
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