IceCube Neutrino Observatory Construction
The tools and materials for the construction of the IceCube Neutrino Observatory at the South Pole, Antarctica, were primarily designed and assembled in Wisconsin. From construction planning in 2002 until completion in 2011, over $100 million was spent in Wisconsin on materials, services and direct labor. More than 300 people, from undergraduate students to engineering professionals, are or have been employed by the IceCube project since 2003. In addition to the statewide economic impact from the construction project, faculty, staff and students have participated in numerous public education events in the Madison area.
Outcomes
The economic impact includes $4.5 million that has gone to companies around the state, including Burton Industries in Oneida County, which made power converters for the project; Unico, Inc in Franksville (Racine County), a maker of motor drives; Interstate Pump and Tank (Waukesha County), which provided pumps and tanks; and Pensar in Appleton (Outagamie County), which partnered with IceCube scientists and engineers to manufacture key components of the telescope's optical sensors.
Focus Areas
Project Leader
Jim Yeck
Project Director
- Department/Unit
- Wisconsin IceCube Particle Astrophysics Center (WIPAC)
- School or College
- Graduate School