A hotspot size estimate technique by using Abrikosov vortices in Josephson tunnel junctions

Abstract

We provide a detailed analysis of our new experimental method for the size estimate of the hotspot induced by ionizing particles in a Josephson tunnel junction. This method is based on the effect of ionizing particles on misaligned Abrikosov vortices, which are trapped in the junction by a field-cooling process. The effect of the radiation is the change of the misalignment parameter of a vortex. This, in turn, induces a change of the Josephson critical current, which can be used for an hotspot size estimate.