Gamma RaysGamma-ray photon energies range from 20 keV and up,
encompassing the highest energies in the electromagnetic
spectrum. Produced in extreme astrophysical environments,
celestial gamma-rays are not easily scattered or destroyed,
offering direct tracers of fundamental physical processes.
Astroparticle Physics Laboratory scientists and engineers have
had extensive involvement in gamma-ray instrument development.
This incorporates scintillator and spark chamber technologies as
well as recently developed solid state cadmium zinc telluride
array detectors. Past Laboratory supported gamma-ray missions
include the TGRS/WIND, SAS-2, GRIS balloon experiment and the
Compton Observatory's EGRET instrument. Present missions include
INTEGRAL, Swift, and Fermi (formerly GLAST). The unique
Laboratory-supported GCN program currently provides rapid, world
wide electronic notification of transient events related to
gamma-ray astronomy. What shines in the gamma-ray sky? Lab
research groups are also involved in theoretic