Stay informed with the latest updates. In this section, you’ll find real-time news about ongoing activities in the Huguenot Tunnel. You can also explore mentions of PAULINE in the media, highlighting the project's impact and growing recognition in the scientific community and beyond.

Last update: 09/2024

What’s Happening inside the tunnel?

February 2024: A temporary and portable particle detector

A state-of-the-art muon detector, provided by the Institute of Physics of the Two Infinities (IP2I) in France, is about to start an exciting new phase of cosmic-ray research at Stellenbosch University (SU) and the University of the Western Cape (UWC). This research is part of a broader initiative to assess the potential for building a deep underground laboratory near the Huguenot tunnel in the Du Toitskloof Mountain pass. A series of measurements were carried out from December 2023 to March 2024.

Why This Matters

The South African Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) has allocated R5 million to study the feasibility of the Paarl Africa Underground Laboratory (PAUL). If approved, PAUL would be a groundbreaking facility, marking the first of its kind in Africa and only the second in the southern hemisphere.

What Are Muons?

Muons are tiny, fast-moving particles that are similar to electrons but much heavier. They are created when cosmic rays from outer space hit the Earth's atmosphere. Despite their short lifespan (they decay in just 2 millionths of a second), muons can travel through materials like rock and metal with minimal energy loss.

How We Use Muons

The initial phase of this project involves measuring the muon levels in the tunnel and mapping the geology of the surrounding rock. This data will help in planning the construction of PAUL and designing future detectors. Understanding muons is crucial because they help researchers study rare and elusive particles like neutrinos and dark matter, which are key to understanding the universe.

Looking Ahead

This research not only paves the way for advanced scientific studies but also offers opportunities for local students to engage in cutting-edge detector development. Collaborations with other research facilities will further enhance our understanding of these mysterious cosmic particles.

Meet the Team

The project involves physicists from Stellenbosch University and UWC, alongside experts from France. They are excited about the potential discoveries and the chance to contribute to global scientific knowledge. For more information, read the article on Stellenbosch University's website.

What's Inside the Box?

A muon detector box is a specialized device used to observe and measure muons, which are elementary particles similar to electrons but much heavier. Here’s what you can typically find inside such a box:

  • Detector Components:
    • Scintillator Material: Often made from plastic or organic crystals, scintillators emit flashes of light when muons pass through them. These materials are safe and non-toxic, but proper handling is essential to avoid damage.
    • Photomultiplier Tubes (PMTs): These devices detect the light from the scintillator and convert it into an electrical signal. PMTs are sealed units and should be handled with care to avoid breakage.
  • Shielding:
    • Lead or Concrete Shielding: To minimize interference from other particles and background radiation, the detector box is sometimes lined with materials like lead or concrete. These materials are used in controlled amounts and handled with protocols to ensure safety.
  • Electronics and Wiring:
    • Data Acquisition System: Includes circuits and sensors that process the signals from the PMTs and send data to a computer for analysis. These electronic components are standard and pose no unusual risk when handled correctly.
  • Protective Housing:
    • Enclosure: The entire setup is housed in a protective box made from metal or plastic. This box ensures that the components are shielded from environmental factors and accidental damage.

For more information, you can check different sources:




January 2024: Sensors

As part of the ongoing research and safety efforts in the tunnel, several sensors are in place to monitor environmental conditions. These sensors provide valuable data to ensure both the proper functioning of equipment and the well-being of those working in the underground facility.

Why This Matters

Monitoring environmental factors like temperature, air pressure, and air quality is critical for maintaining the ideal conditions for sensitive experiments. These measurements help researchers understand how the underground environment behaves and ensure that the tunnel is a safe place for both scientists and the community. Additionally, the use of Geiger counters provides an extra layer of reassurance: the enviroment is free from any radiation risks.

What variables?

The sensors installed inside the tunnel measure key environmental variables:

  • **Temperature** sensors ensure that equipment operates within optimal temperature ranges, as sensitive detectors can be affected by even small temperature changes.
  • **Air pressure** sensors monitor changes in atmospheric pressure, which can influence the performance of the experiments. Stable air pressure is important for maintaining the precision needed in these measurements.
  • **Air quality** sensors detect the presence of dust or other particles in the air, which could interfere with the sensitive equipment. Ensuring clean air helps maintain the integrity of the experiments being conducted.
  • **Geiger counter** sensors are used to confirm the absence of radiation in the tunnel. Although no radiation is present, the Geiger counter serves as a precautionary measure to ensure that the environment remains safe for researchers and staff. Its role is to demonstrate that the facility is free from any radiation risks, providing reassurance to all stakeholders.

Looking Ahead

Collecting and analyzing this data allows the research team to refine their understanding of the underground environment, ensuring that future detectors and experiments are designed to operate effectively and safely. The data also serves to maintain transparency with the community, reinforcing the commitment to a safe and well-monitored facility.

PAUL in the media

Media Publications

Interview, Radio and TV