Projects
IceCube Neutrino Observatory - mDOM Production
Katelynn is currently working with a select group of students to build Multi-PMT Digital Optical Modules (mDOMs) for the IceCube Neutrino Observatory. The work involves carefully assembling and testing the modules with little to no error.
The mDOMs consist of tewnty-four photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) that generate light when interacting with a neutrino particle. The DOMs that are currently working in the observatory consist of one large PMT. The upgrade to the obsercatory will add 425 new mDOMs which will increase the sensativity and resolution of the detector. This will allow researchers to better detect the difference between muons and tau neutrinos, and to observe the properties of tau neutrinos.
In the lab at MSU, the team is able to assemble and perform a variety of tests on the mDOMs in order to produce the highest quality modules possible. Katelynn consistently performs a variety of these tasks, and helps train new team members in learning each stage of the assembly. She oversees parts of the production process and assists lab managers in the final stages of testing.
MSU ATLAS Project - sMDT Production
For over two years, Katelynn worked with a group of select students on the MSU ATLAS Project. The team worked on building small-diameter Drift Tubes (sMDT) that will upgrade the ATLAS Muon Spectrometer. ATLAS is part of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN.
Katelynn's work in the lab included careful work to assemble tubes, fill them with gas, and perform various tests. Throughout the process, Katelynn operated several software programs to collect data and test the tubes. The group produced over 25,000 tubes with an average error rate of less than 5%.
After production, the tubes were sent to University of Michigan for final testing before being installed unto chambers that would be sent to CERN for installation in the ATLAS detectors muon spectrometer. As a muon passes through the tube it knocks electrons out of the gas. The electron is drawn to a charged wire inside the tube which releases a signal allowsing us to track the position and trajectory of the muon. The assembled tubes are much smaller than the ones currently operating the spectrometer, and allow researchers to collect more accurated and precise data.
Society of Women in Space Exploration
Katelynn has been the president of the MSU chapter of the Society of Women in Space Exploration (SWISE) since spring of 2020. The chapter was created one year prior to Katelynn succeeding the position andworked hard to build and mantain a safe space for women and other minorities in STEM.
Being a woman in STEM can be very discouraging, and SWISE was created a strong network of students to empower women and minorities to pursue careers in STEM. The organization hosts professional development workshops, guest speakers, student research talks, conferences, social events, and more. As the president, Katelynn works hard to mantain a strong support system among members. She oversees the e-board, organizes events, seeks volunteer oportunities, and collaborates with other organizations. SWISE is a growing organization and is continuously gaining new members and providing great oportunities for students.
