The IceTop Scintillator Upgrade

The IceCube Neutrino Observatory at the South Pole probes the high-energy cosmic-ray sky by investigating the muonic and electromagnetic component of air showers measured with IceTop and the in-ice detector. However, more detailed measurements are needed to understand the astrophysics of the high-energy cosmic-ray sky. This, along with the need to mitigate the impact of snow accumulation on IceTop tanks, has given us impetus for further upgrades including scintillator and SiPM-readout-based stations. Prototype stations showcasing technological advances for the next generation in cosmic ray detection are currently under construction for deployment at South Pole in December 2017. We describe the physics and the current status of the project.