Scientists discover record-breaking cosmic ray electrons near Earth

After more than a decade of research, the HESS Observatory in Namibia has recorded the most energetic cosmic ray electrons ever detected, according to reports. These high-energy particles, made up of electrons and positrons, are believed to come from intense cosmic phenomena such as supernova explosions, neutron stars and black holes. The discovery suggests that the sources of these particles are likely within a few hundred light years of the solar system.

Challenges in the detection of high energy electrons

The study, according to Space.com reportemphasizes that these findings shed light on extreme cosmic processes. Dr. Mathieu de Naurois, deputy director of the HESS collaboration and researcher at the French National Center for Scientific Research, stated that understanding these cosmic rays will allow us to reveal large particle accelerators in the universe that are often associated with the most violent phenomena.

The research indicates that detecting these particles is particularly challenging due to their rarity and the difficulty of distinguishing them from other cosmic rays. Reports indicate that the HESS observatory used a massive telescope array designed to capture Cherenkov radiation, a phenomenon that occurs when high-energy particles collide with Earth’s atmosphere. This innovative approach enabled the detection of electrons with energy levels exceeding several teraelectron volts, which is beyond the capabilities of particle accelerators on Earth.

Nearby cosmic accelerators

According to the study, the team identified a sharp break in the energy spectrum at 1 TeV, indicating a rapid loss of energy by electrons in the Milky Way. Dr. Mathieu de Naurois told Space.com that this points to nearby sources, possibly related to supernova remnants or pulsars. The analysis suggests that these phenomena serve as powerful particle accelerators, producing the highest energy electrons ever observed.

The findings provide crucial data for understanding cosmic rays and will serve as a benchmark for future studies, as noted by researchers involved in the project. This discovery contributes to ongoing efforts to investigate the most energetic processes in the universe and their implications.