Soil hydrology across scales: from soil moisture sensors to cosmic ray neutron sensing through geophysical characterization

This thesis explores the methodology of cosmic ray neutron sensing (CRNS) through a combination of theoretical analysis, Monte Carlo simulations, and the interpretation of real data collected at the Borgo Grignanello site. The study focuses on assessing the potential of CRNS for monitoring heterogeneous systems, particularly when supported by complementary characterisation using conventional geophysical methods. Monte Carlo simulations are employed to evaluate how regions with varying lithological properties influence the detector response. These results are then compared with time series data from CRNS measurements and point sensor observations at the site, to validate the simulation outcomes and assess the spatial sensitivity of the method.