The regional MINT-EC cluster “Bonn-Rhein-Sieg and Ahr”, in cooperation with the Netzwerk Teilchenwelt Bonn, once again organized a MINT-EC Camp on Particle and Detector Physics. The three-day camp took place from November 10 to 12, 2025, in the new Rotation Building, the current temporary location of the Institute of Physics.
The camp offered a well-balanced program combining theoretical input, hands-on practical work, and data analysis sessions. It was conducted by Sebastian Laudage (PhD) in collaboration with Oliver Kroon (Bachelor). A particular focus was placed on the “DIY Particle Detector 2.0”, which was developed as part of a bachelor’s thesis by Rojin Aksu. Building on this work, Oliver Kroon created comprehensive instructional and workshop materials for his own bachelor’s thesis, which were used and evaluated for the first time during the camp.
Participant Report
by Nina Schlax and Jan Rasmus
During the MINT camp on particle physics, we had the opportunity to build our own detectors. As preparation, we first attended several lectures on quantum and particle physics, which provided a solid theoretical foundation.
A particular highlight was the visit to the Research and Technology Center for Detector Physics. During a guided tour, we gained direct insight into the researchers’ work and the laboratory environments—it was fascinating to see how research is conducted there.
While building the detector, we were able to solder the circuit ourselves, which was both educational and a lot of fun. In addition, we built a cloud chamber, allowing us to visualize ionizing radiation, which looked really impressive. Finally, we tested the muon detector using software and various mildly radioactive sources. We were even allowed to take the detector home with us.
We would like to thank all helpers and participants who made the smooth execution of the camp possible. We also gratefully acknowledge the ZDI (Zukunft durch Innovation Nordrhein-Westfalen) for funding the camp.
