In 2021, scientists discovered a remarkable cosmic particle named Amaterasu. It’s one of the most energetic cosmic rays we’ve ever recorded, with an astonishing energy of around 244 exa-electronvolts (EeV). Initially thought to be coming from an empty part of space, new studies suggest it might actually trace back to a nearby star-forming galaxy.
The Telescope Array Project in Utah captured the Amaterasu particle in May 2021. To put its energy into perspective, that’s about 40 million times more than what we see at the Large Hadron Collider. Its direction initially pointed to the Local Void, a very sparse region of our universe, which puzzled astronomers trying to pinpoint where such a high-energy particle might originate.
According to a report from EurekAlert, these ultra-high-energy cosmic rays are rare because they typically come from extreme cosmic environments. The detection team acknowledged that determining whether the particle is a proton or another type of nucleus, like iron, is complex. The Local Void presents a challenge, as there are few sources capable of creating particles with such immense energy.
Figuring out where a cosmic ray comes from is tricky. Magnetic fields can alter its path as it travels through space. A recent study in The Astrophysical Journal explored this challenge. Researchers combined simulations with advanced statistical techniques to create detailed maps of cosmic-ray movement and interaction with magnetic fields. They found that integrating different methods allows for a better understanding of potential origins.
As it turns out, Amaterasu may not be linked to just the Local Void. The study suggests that it might come from a nearby galaxy like M82, also known as the Cigar Galaxy, located about 12 million light-years away. Nadine Bourriche from the Max Planck Institute for Physics highlighted this finding, noting that the particle likely originated from a star-forming environment rather than a low-density area.
“Our goal is to develop advanced statistical analysis methods to help us understand the sources of these energetic particles,” said Francesca Capel, leading the Astrophysical Messengers group.
Understanding particles like Amaterasu can provide insights into the universe’s power to accelerate matter to these extreme levels. This knowledge not only enhances our grasp of cosmic forces but also pushes scientists to rethink existing theories about cosmic ray origins.
As interest in high-energy cosmic phenomena grows, it’s evident that new technologies and methodologies are essential in unraveling the mysteries of our universe. This groundbreaking research showcases how collaboration and innovation in science can lead to remarkable discoveries.
For further details about cosmic rays and their implications, you can explore more at NASA.
