SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Scientists from the University of Utah and the University of Tokyo have made a groundbreaking discovery by identifying a rare cosmic ray that appears to have originated from beyond the Milky Way galaxy. This ultra-high-energy particle, named the “Amaterasu particle” after the Japanese sun goddess, has left the scientific community puzzled and intrigued.
The “Amaterasu particle” was observed by the Telescope Array, an observatory in Utah’s West Desert, which consists of 507 surface detectors over 270 square miles. The particle’s energy level is comparable to the record-setting “Oh-My-God particle” observed in 1991, according to the findings published in the journal Science. John Matthews, a spokesperson for Telescope Array, expressed astonishment, stating, “In the case of the Oh-My-God particle and this new particle, you trace its trajectory to its source and there’s nothing high energy enough to have produced it. That’s the mystery of this — what the heck is going on?”
This discovery challenges the traditional understanding of cosmic rays, as high-energy cosmic rays like the Amaterasu particle are believed to come from other galaxies and extragalactic sources, rather than originating from the sun. With over 30 ultra-high-energy cosmic rays observed, the Amaterasu particle has demonstrated itself as the most significant event observed by the Telescope Array.
The observatory is expanding its reach with an additional 500 detectors, aiming to capture more cosmic ray-induced particle showers and unlock further insights into the mysteries of the cosmos. The Amaterasu particle is believed to have emerged from the Local Void, an empty region of space bordering the Milky Way galaxy, adding to the enigma surrounding its origin. These findings and ongoing research hold the promise of unraveling more cosmic mysteries, providing a deeper understanding of our universe.
The “Amaterasu particle” struck the atmosphere on May 27, 2021, triggering 23 surface detectors and giving off energy equaling about 244 exa-electron volts. Unlike low-energy cosmic rays, whose origins are traceable, ultra-high-energy particles such as this seem to come from seemingly empty spaces, challenging our existing knowledge of astrophysics. This groundbreaking discovery opens the door to an exciting new chapter in space exploration and scientific inquiry.
In conclusion, this rare and remarkable discovery by scientists in Utah and Tokyo has prompted a reexamination of our understanding of cosmic rays and the origins of high-energy particles. The “Amaterasu particle” has sparked a wave of curiosity and enthusiasm within the scientific community, as researchers endeavor to unlock the mysteries of the cosmos and explore the depths of the universe.
