Exploring the quantum nature of phenomena is one of the most exiting experiences a physics student can live.

What is being proposed here has to do with light quanta, radioactive decays (β and γ rays) and cosmic rays. The experiments address the essence of the phenomenon as well as exemplary illustrations of their use in medical imaging and industry, complemented by basic and advanced statistical exercises.

The set-up are all based on Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPM) state of-the-art sensor of light with single photon sensitivity and unprecedented photon number capability. In the field of light sensing and related appliances and instrumentation, SiPM are expected to have the same impact the transistor had: well beyond the replacement of thermoionic valves, it triggered a revolution opening up new and unforeseen perspectives. As a consequence, it is quite natural to get started with activities aimed to introduce the student to the knowledge of the features of this class of sensors.