The recent discovery of a highly energetic cosmic ray has left scientists puzzled as they struggle to determine its source, leading to speculation about unknown physics at play.
In a remarkable breakthrough, scientists have detected the most powerful cosmic ray in over three decades, raising questions about its origin and the possibility of new physics. With an estimated energy of 240 exa-electronvolts (EeV), this cosmic ray rivals the record-breaking Oh-My-God particle discovered in 1991. Published in Science, the findings have left researchers intrigued and searching for answers.
The Nature of Cosmic Rays:
Contrary to its name, a cosmic ray is a subatomic particle, typically a proton, that travels through space at nearly the speed of light. Ultrahigh-energy cosmic rays, which surpass one EeV in energy, are exceptionally rare and exceed the capabilities of human-made particle accelerators. These cosmic rays are often considered a window into the mysteries of the universe.
The Discovery of the “Amaterasu” Particle:
On May 27, 2021, Toshihiro Fujii from Osaka Metropolitan University made a surprising discovery while examining data from the Telescope Array, a cosmic-ray detector in Utah. The data indicated a significant spike in energy, suggesting a collision with an incredibly energetic particle. Dubbed “Amaterasu” after the Japanese Sun goddess, this cosmic ray presented an exciting opportunity for further investigation.
The Challenge of Identifying the Source:
Despite the excitement surrounding the discovery, scientists faced a perplexing challenge in determining the source of the ultrahigh-energy cosmic ray. Typically, these particles travel through space relatively smoothly, making it easier to trace their origins. However, Fujii and his team found that Amaterasu originated from a region with few galaxies, leaving them without a clear explanation.
Potential Explanations:
One possible explanation for the difficulty in pinpointing the source is that current models of how magnetic fields influence cosmic rays may require adjustment. It is plausible that the estimated direction of Amaterasu’s origin may be slightly off, leading to the discrepancy. This suggests the need for further refinement in understanding the behavior of cosmic rays.
Alternatively, the detection of Amaterasu raises the intriguing possibility of unknown physical processes at play. Jose Bellido Caceres, an astroparticle physicist at the University of Adelaide, suggests that ultrahigh-energy cosmic rays may be able to travel much greater distances than previously believed. Exploring these uncharted territories could provide valuable insights into particle interactions at extreme energies, which are beyond the capabilities of Earth-based accelerators.
The Path Ahead:
To unravel the mysteries surrounding ultrahigh-energy cosmic rays, Fujii and his team are working on upgrading the Telescope Array to enhance its sensitivity. This upgrade will enable researchers to capture more of these rare particles and gain a more precise understanding of their origins. By delving deeper into the study of cosmic rays, scientists hope to shed light on the fundamental workings of the universe.
Conclusion:
The recent discovery of the most powerful cosmic ray in decades has left scientists both excited and perplexed. The search for its origin raises intriguing questions about the nature of cosmic rays and the possibility of new physics. As researchers continue to explore these ultrahigh-energy particles, advancements in technology and refined models may uncover the secrets behind their creation. The study of cosmic rays offers a glimpse into the extreme energies of the universe, pushing the boundaries of our understanding and paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries in the future.
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