New Insights into the Origins of Ultrahigh-Energy Cosmic Rays
Ultrahigh-energy Cosmic Rays May Be Ultraheavy in Origin

Image: Universe Today
Researchers propose that ultrahigh-energy cosmic rays, like the Amaterasu particle detected in Utah, may originate from ultraheavy atomic nuclei. This finding could reshape our understanding of cosmic ray sources and their acceleration mechanisms, with implications for future observational studies.
- 01The Amaterasu particle, detected in 2021, had an energy level of approximately 240 x 10^18 electron volts.
- 02The research team includes members from several prestigious institutions, including Penn State and Kyoto University.
- 03Ultrahigh-energy cosmic rays are believed to originate from extreme cosmic events, such as neutron star collisions and supernovae.
- 04The study suggests that ultraheavy nuclei lose energy more slowly than lighter particles, enabling them to reach Earth at extreme energies.
- 05Future observatories, like AugerPrime, may help confirm these findings and enhance our understanding of cosmic ray origins.
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The discovery of the Amaterasu particle by the Telescope Array Project in Utah in 2021 has sparked new theories about the origins of ultrahigh-energy cosmic rays. Researchers suggest that these cosmic rays could be composed of ultraheavy atomic nuclei, which may explain their extreme energy levels, such as the Amaterasu particle's energy of approximately 240 x 10^18 electron volts. This study, involving an international team from institutions like Penn State and Kyoto University, posits that ultraheavy nuclei can travel through intergalactic space more efficiently than lighter particles, allowing them to maintain their high energy upon reaching Earth. The origins of these cosmic rays have puzzled scientists for over 60 years, with potential sources including catastrophic events like neutron star mergers and massive supernovae. The research also indicates that if ultraheavy nuclei are significant contributors to ultrahigh-energy cosmic rays, future observations may reveal a composition heavier than iron. The findings were published in the journal *Physical Review Letters* on May 7th, and the team aims to further investigate these cosmic phenomena using next-generation observatories.
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