Kolar Fields Experiments
Along with groups from TIFR and Osaka University, Durham physics conducted research in the Kolar Gold Fields situated in Karnataka, India, with the intention of detecting atmospheric neutrons. Cosmic Ray Physics was reaching its peak in Durham.
In the early 1960's, object glasses, eyepieces and various prisms were donated to local schools and colleges, likely the last traces of astronomy in the Durham Observatory. It was clear then, that the department's focus had turned almost entirely to the nuclear physics of cosmic ray particles. 1967 marked the first year of results from the Haverah Park Extensive Air Shower Array.
The experiment was established by the University of Leeds, with collaboration from Nottingham University and Imperial College in London. In Durham, Rochester and Wolfendale also aided in the identification of the arrival direction of cosmic rays.
In this year, Rochester also became one of the two pro-vice-chancellors of the university, a role he remained in until 1970.
Work in Durham Laboratories and the Haverah Park site, pointed towards the presence of heavy nuclei in cosmic rays.
View the slideshow of the Rochester Building from construction to completion, and the changes made through the decades
The Department continues to expand, and Arnold Wolfendale becomes Head of Department
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