Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE), Far Detector Technical Design Report, Volume I: Introduction to DUNE (2002.02967v3)

Abstract: The preponderance of matter over antimatter in the early universe, the dynamics of the supernovae that produced the heavy elements necessary for life, and whether protons eventually decay -- these mysteries at the forefront of particle physics and astrophysics are key to understanding the early evolution of our universe, its current state, and its eventual fate. The Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) is an international world-class experiment dedicated to addressing these questions as it searches for leptonic charge-parity symmetry violation, stands ready to capture supernova neutrino bursts, and seeks to observe nucleon decay as a signature of a grand unified theory underlying the standard model. The DUNE far detector technical design report (TDR) describes the DUNE physics program and the technical designs of the single- and dual-phase DUNE liquid argon TPC far detector modules. This TDR is intended to justify the technical choices for the far detector that flow down from the high-level physics goals through requirements at all levels of the Project. Volume I contains an executive summary that introduces the DUNE science program, the far detector and the strategy for its modular designs, and the organization and management of the Project. The remainder of Volume I provides more detail on the science program that drives the choice of detector technologies and on the technologies themselves. It also introduces the designs for the DUNE near detector and the DUNE computing model, for which DUNE is planning design reports. Volume II of this TDR describes DUNE's physics program in detail. Volume III describes the technical coordination required for the far detector design, construction, installation, and integration, and its organizational structure. Volume IV describes the single-phase far detector technology. A planned Volume V will describe the dual-phase technology.

• The paper presents DUNE's technical blueprint that integrates advanced LArTPC technology with an innovative experimental design to investigate neutrino properties.
• It details the systematic coordination of near and far detectors, ensuring precise neutrino flux measurements and reduced experimental uncertainties.
• The report outlines an international collaborative framework and robust computational strategy, setting clear milestones through the 2030s for breakthrough discoveries.

Overview of the DUNE Technical Design Report

The Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) Technical Design Report (TDR) outlines the comprehensive strategy and design framework for a major international scientific endeavor aimed at addressing fundamental questions in particle physics and astrophysics. This document serves as a key reference for understanding the structural and operational facets of DUNE, including its scientific objectives, technical execution, and the complex organizational structure that supports this initiative.

Scientific Goals and Opportunities

DUNE is set to explore crucial aspects of neutrino physics, with a primary focus on leptonic CP violation, neutrino mass hierarchy, and neutrino oscillation parameters. These measurements are poised to elucidate the properties of neutrinos, which are pivotal to our understanding of the universe and fundamental physics. Additionally, DUNE aims to detect supernova neutrinos, providing insights into stellar processes and nucleosynthesis, and to search for evidence of proton decay, which would indicate physics beyond the Standard Model and potentially support grand unified theories (GUTs).

Detector Components and Experimental Design

To achieve its ambitious scientific goals, DUNE employs a range of cutting-edge technologies. The experimental setup includes a long-baseline neutrino beam generated at Fermilab, a sophisticated near detector (ND) complex, and a massive far detector (FD) deployed at the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) in South Dakota, approximately 1.5 kilometers underground.

• Far Detector: The FD utilizes liquid argon time-projection chamber (LArTPC) technology, offering a modular detector structure capable of unprecedented resolution and specificity in neutrino interaction studies. The FD is designed to have four modules, each optimized for different detection and data acquisition strategies.
• Near Detector: The ND plays a crucial role in measuring the unoscillated neutrino flux and mitigating systematic uncertainties, thus setting the stage for accurate comparisons with the oscillated spectra observed in the FD.
• ProtoDUNEs: These prototypes are instrumental in validating detector technologies, testing construction methodologies, and refining data acquisition strategies, ensuring that the full-scale DUNE apparatus operates optimally from day one.

Technical Coordination and Integration

The DUNE TDR emphasizes the importance of seamless coordination across various scientific and engineering domains to ensure the project’s success. The technical coordination group is tasked with managing subsystem integration, establishing stringent quality assurance protocols, and coordinating with the Long-Baseline Neutrino Facility (LBNF) to guarantee consistent project-wide standards and practices.

Computational Framework

Given the significant data volumes expected from DUNE operations, the computational strategy is a vital component detailed in the TDR. DUNE's computing consortium oversees the acquisition, processing, and analysis of data across global resources, leveraging high-performance computing (HPC) frameworks and data management systems adapted from large-scale projects like the LHC.

Organizational Structure and International Collaboration

DUNE epitomizes international collaboration, with over 1,000 scientists and engineers from numerous countries contributing to the project. The governance model is crafted to facilitate coherent scientific and technical decision-making, ensure effective resource allocation, and foster synergies across the contributing nations and institutions.

Forward Looking Statements

The TDR outlines a robust schedule with detailed milestones for the DUNE project, extending into the 2030s. This strategic timeline is crucial for coordinating construction, testing, and deployment phases, ensuring alignment with advancements in technology and theoretical developments in particle physics.

In summary, the DUNE TDR presents a thorough account of the scientific vision, technical architecture, and organizational dynamics involved in this landmark experiment. Through its meticulous planning and collaborative framework, DUNE is poised to make groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of particle physics and the universe.