Millikelvin-precision temperature sensing for advanced cryogenic detectors

Precise temperature monitoring – to the level of a few milli-Kelvin – is essential for the operation of large-scale cryostats requiring a recirculation system. In particular, the performance of Liquid Argon Time Projection Chambers – such as those planned for the DUNE experiment – strongly relies on proper argon purification and mixing, which can be characterized by a sufficiently dense grid of high-precision temperature probes. In this article, we present a novel technique for the cross-calibration of Resistance Temperature Detectors in cryogenic liquids, developed as part of the temperature monitoring system for a DUNE prototype. This calibration has enabled the validation and optimization of the system’s components, achieving an unprecedented precision of 2.5 mK.