MARIACHI: A multidisciplinary effort to bring science and engineering to the classroom

MARIACHI is a unique endeavor that integrates research at the frontier of our knowledge of the universe, with a broad program of training, education, advancement, and mentoring. Its scientific goal is to detect ultra-high-energy cosmic rays whose origin may provide insight into the evolution of the universe. The detection technique is novel and is based on radar-like technology (where signal processing plays a crucial role) and traditional scintillator ground detectors. The wide educational program flows from the research concept and involves students at all levels (high-school, undergraduate and graduate) working with a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers and educators.