METKirun

METKirun is a proposed underground research laboratory focused on neutrino physics. The project aims to construct a facility deep underground to reduce cosmic ray background noise, which is essential for detecting faint neutrino signals. The proposed location for METKirun is in the Kiruna region of Sweden, known for its stable geology and existing infrastructure from the LKAB iron ore mine.

The primary scientific goal of METKirun is to conduct precision measurements of neutrino properties. This includes investigating neutrino oscillations, determining the neutrino mass hierarchy, and searching for potential signs of new physics beyond the Standard Model. Researchers hope to gain a deeper understanding of the fundamental nature of neutrinos, which are among the most abundant yet elusive particles in the universe.

The laboratory would house advanced detectors designed to capture and analyze neutrino interactions. These detectors would likely employ technologies such as liquid scintillator or noble liquid-based systems. The depth of the facility, estimated to be around 1,000 to 1,500 meters below the surface, is crucial for shielding the sensitive instruments from interfering radiation.

METKirun represents a significant international collaboration, involving scientists and institutions from various countries. The project is in its planning and feasibility study stages. If approved and constructed, it is expected to contribute significantly to the field of particle physics and cosmology for many years to come.