Hydrophone characterization for the KM3NeT experiment

Abstract

With the KM3NeT experiment, which is presently under construction in the Mediterranean Sea, a new neutrino telescope will be installed to study both the neutrino properties as well as the cosmic origin of these particles. To do so, about 6000 optical modules will be installed in the abyss of the Mediterranean Sea to observe the Cherenkov radiation induced by high energy particle interactions in the deep sea. As each module of the KM3NeT telescope includes a piezo hydrophone, KM3NeT will also provide a unique matrix of underwater hydrophones. Results from the measurements show a well understood response of continuous signals, such as tones. In contrast, the response to transients signals exhibit a complex behavior with ringing and echo’s. Amplitude calibration measurements show a frequency dependent response which can be corrected for. Finally a system noise floor has been determined which amounts to 45 dB Re μPa2/Hz at 30 kHz.