Scientists Stunned by Most Powerful Cosmic Ray in Decades
Scientists are puzzled by the detection of the most powerful cosmic ray seen in over 30 years, leaving them questioning its origin and source.
Puzzling Cosmic Ray Stumps Scientists
Scientists are seeking answers to a new outer space mystery after a telescope in Utah detected the most powerful cosmic ray seen in more than three decades. The ultra-high-energy particle, believed to have come from beyond the Milky Way galaxy, has left scientists wondering about its origin and the physics behind its creation.
The cosmic ray, nicknamed the Amaterasu particle, has sparked speculation that unknown physics could be responsible for its generation. According to Clancy James, an astronomer at Curtin University, the discovery has raised questions about what could produce such high energy.
Cosmic rays are charged particles that travel at close to the speed of light. While cosmic rays with energies of over 100 exa-electron volts (EeV) are rare, they provide valuable samples of matter from outside the solar system.
Oh-My-God Particle Exceeded Theoretical Limits
In the past, the most powerful cosmic ray detected was the Oh-My-God particle, which measured around 320 exa-electron volts (EeV) over 30 years ago. This particle had more energy than was theoretically possible for cosmic rays traveling from other galaxies, leading to questions on its existence.
Recently, a cosmic ray with an estimated energy of 240 EeV was found in Utah. Toshihiro Fujii from Osaka Metropolitan University discovered the signals during a routine data check, but initially thought there may have been a mistake or damage to the detectors. Further investigation is needed to understand the source and origin of these ultra-high-energy cosmic rays.
Uncovering the Origins of High-Energy Cosmic Rays
The exact origins of these high-energy cosmic rays remain unknown despite years of research. Efforts to trace their trajectory have not led to any source with enough energy to produce them. John Matthews, co-spokesperson at the University of Utah, states that there is still a mystery surrounding these cosmic rays.
John Belz, a professor at the University of Utah, suggests that the high-energy particles may come from various places in the sky, including voids or empty space. He speculates that unconventional explanations, such as defects in spacetime or colliding cosmic strings, may be responsible.
Ongoing upgrades to the Telescope Array in Utah aim to enhance sensitivity and allow for more precise tracking of ultrahigh-energy cosmic rays, providing researchers with valuable insights into their origins.
