Validation of a new background discrimination method for the TACTIC TeV $\gamma$-ray telescope with Markarian 421 data

Understand

This paper describes the validation of a new background discrimination method based on Random Forest technique by re-analysing the Markarian 421 (Mrk 421) observations performed by the TACTIC (TeV Atmospheric Cherenkov Telescope with Imaging Camera) gamma-ray telescope.

• The Random Forest technique is a flexible multivariate method which combines Bagging and Random Split Selection to construct a large collection of decision trees and then combines them to construct a common classifier.
• Markarian 421 in a high state was observed by TACTIC during December 07, 2005 - April 30, 2006 for 202 h.
• Previous analysis of this data led to a detection of flaring activity from the source at Energy $ >$ 1 TeV.