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Background Neutron Count at Different Altitudes
                             recorded near
                   Calgary, Alberta, Canada
The following observations were all taken in the vicinity of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. All were taken within a three hour period, starting at 3:45 PM on Sunday, July 30, 2006. The altitudes were derived from a handheld GPS, and the highest and lowest altitudes were verified with topographical maps.

The neutron readings were taken with a Reuter Stokes RS-P4-0820-103 Helium 3 detector tube and a Ludlum model 2000 scaler, using a voltage of 1700 volts. No moderator was used with the tube.

Note that since this equipment has not been calibrated, the absolute values are meaningless. However a valid comparison can be made of the relative magnitude of the counts recorded. (Calibration would allow us to convert the readings obtained to the actual number of neutrons per cm. per minute. It would take into account the size of the active area of the tube and the tube's efficiency.)
6500 Feet MSL
     
365 Counts in the First 10 Minutes
     
402     "         "   "  2nd   "       "
     
417     "         "   "  3rd    "       "

Average count at 6500 Feet:
39.5 CPM
4800 Feet MSL
      265 Counts in the First 10 Minutes
     
277     "        "    "  2nd    "       "
     
288     "        "    "   3rd    "       "

Average count at 4800 Feet:
27.7 CPM
3600 Feet MSL
    
193 Counts in the First 10 Minutes
    
225      "       "    "  2nd    "       "
    
203      "       "    "  3rd     "       "

Average count at 3550 Feet:
20.7 CPM
1