Solar Eclipse Effect on Cosmic Ray Flux Variation

In this study, we investigate the impact of the April 8, 2024, solar eclipse on cosmic ray flux variation in Atlanta, Georgia, using a custom muon detection setup at the downtown campus of Georgia State University. We utilized a detector comprising three layers of plastic scintillator with embedded wavelength-shifting fibers and silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) to record cosmic ray muon counts. The data acquisition system was based on a custom-built Raspberry Pi hat for processing and coincidence detection. Our data collection spanned from 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM, encompassing the entire duration of the eclipse. The results indicate a statistically significant increase in cosmic ray flux at the time of maximum eclipse coverage (3:04 PM). Ground level temperature data was also recorded during the measurement. This study provides insights into the correlations between solar activity and cosmic ray flux variation, with potential implications for atmospheric science and space weather prediction using cosmic ray muon measurements. The data analysis results and the detector setup will be presented.