On the Problem OF Detecting Solar Neutrinos
John N. Bahcall, R. Jr. Davis · 1964
Ihe evidence supporting the theory of nuclear energy generation i n stars is indirect.%is evidence is based fargely upon observations of electromagnetic radiation emitted f'ran the eurface of stars rvld upon theoretical stellar models that have not been subJect t o independent . .'experimental tests.It I 8 interesting, therefore, t o try to think-& ,,-+ a way of testing 8 i r e c t Q the theory of stellar energy generation in stars.~n e e r to make such a test, one wo~ld m e to*& able,,& "see" .* .' + Into the deep hrterior of a s f a r where the nuclear reactions are believed L . .-* I . .-> ." ' X ,.A ? ., ' k .t o occur.lhue an tnfcmation carrier: with a mean free path of the d e r ~f Qp (is required.~n the interior of a etar like the am, liept has EL mean 'free psth ~e e lees than a centmter.neutrinos, vhich have extremely emall iaferactfon cross sections, can enable us t o "eee" h t o the ¶nteriar of 8 star.!bus the observation of 8oZSr neutrinos would canstitute the most direct test that we can think of %ark supparted in part by the Office af lpatral Research an8 the Rational Aeronautics and Space Administration.