Fluorescence in air excited by electrons from a 90Sr source

The air fluorescence technique is used to observe ultra-high energy cosmic rays (UHECRs). In this technique, fluorescence from air excited by electrons within an extensive air shower (EAS) under various pressure and temperature conditions is detected by a telescope. The primary energy of the UHECR is estimated from the amount of fluorescence. Since ground-based experiments, such as Flyʹs Eye, HiRes, Auger, Telescope Array, are carried out at high altitudes, the effects of water vapor may be negligible and the photon yields in dry air, which we have measured and reported so far, will be applicable. However, in case of space-based experiments such as JEM-EUSO, most events will be observed above the sea. Photon yields in moist air are measured with a 90Sr β source and compared to those in dry air at wavelengths of 337, 358 and 391 nm. The presence of water vapor considerably reduces the photon yield. The decrease in the photon yield in moist air should be taken into account to interpret the longitudinal development of EASs near the sea surface, although the effects around the shower maximum for most showers might be small.