Development of an isotropic optical light source for testing nuclear instruments

Abstract

Nuclear instruments that require precise characterization and calibration of their optical components need well-characterized optical light sources with the desired wavelength, intensity, and directivity. This paper presents a novel technique for determining the performance of optical components by producing an isotropic-like source with a robotically positioned LED. The theory of operation for this light source, results of Monte Carlo validation studies, and experimental results are presented.