Cherenkov detectors are based on a type of radiation called cherenkov radiation. The radiation is named after the first person to thoroughly characterize the effect. It occurs when particles moving through a dielectric material are travelling faster then the speed of light in that material.
        Cherenkov detectors, also called counters, are designed to collect the radiation and to then produce an electrical signal using light sensors such as photomultiplier tubes. The detectors come in many different forms and are generally tailored to the specific needs of the application.
         Cherenkov detectors are used for studying high energy physics such as in nuclear physics and cosmic ray physics. Some examples are the Sudbury Neutrino Observatory and Super Kamiokande, both of which are involved in studying neutrinos.