My research focuses on advancing detector technology for medium-energy gamma-ray astronomy, addressing the so-called “MeV gap” between 10 keV and 1 GeV. Despite major progress in X-ray and high-energy gamma-ray observations, this energy range remains largely unexplored due to the lack of sufficiently sensitive space instruments. Yet it is crucial for investigating fundamental astrophysical processes, including nuclear line emission, non-thermal bremsstrahlung, and particle acceleration in extreme environments. Observations in this band are essential for constraining emission models of compact objects such as blazars and pulsars. Next-generation space telescopes aim to bridge this gap by combining Compton scattering and pair-production detection within a single instrument. This approach enables measurements of photon direction, energy spectrum, and timing variability. However, it requires a highly optimized detector architecture: Compton events demand precise energy measurement of both the scattered photon and electron, along with 3D tracking of the electron trajectory, while pair-production events require accurate reconstruction of electron–positron tracks to determine the incoming photon direction. The typical configuration consists of a low-Z multilayer tracker coupled to a high-Z calorimeter.

In particular I work on the characterization of advanced monolithic pixel sensors (developed under SIU wp 4.2) for such multilayer trackers, particularly in the context of proposed space missions covering 100 keV to 1 GeV. Monolithic pixel detectors integrate the sensing volume and readout electronics within the same silicon substrate, offering compactness, reduced material budget, and low power consumption—key requirements for space applications. Scalability is equally critical, as large active areas (~m²) must be assembled by tiling sensors while maintaining performance and power efficiency. My contribution revolves around the simulation of the entire compton telescope based on the characteristics of the sensors, focusing on the tracking system performance.

Click here for more information and here to view my poster.