Astronomers have once again been astonished by the detection of an ultra-high-energy cosmic ray, coming close to the record-breaking Oh-My-God particle observed in 1991 by the University of Utah’s Fly’s Eye experiment. The recent discovery, named Amaterasu after the sun goddess in Japanese mythology, has left scientists perplexed as they seek to unravel the mysteries of its origin and the cosmic phenomena that could produce such high-energy particles.
The University of Utah’s Telescope Array experiment has been at the forefront of these extraordinary observations, continuously monitoring the skies for cosmic rays. In May 2021, the experiment detected the arrival of the second-highest extreme-energy cosmic ray ever observed. With an energy level equivalent to dropping a brick from waist height, the 2.4 x 10^20 electron volts particle triggered 23 detectors in the northwest region of the array, covering a substantial 48 square kilometers.
In its pursuit of understanding these rare cosmic events, the Telescope Array has observed over 30 ultra-high-energy cosmic rays, shedding light on the remarkable phenomena occurring beyond our planet. The detection of Amaterasu has raised questions about its mysterious origins and the cosmic processes capable of producing such exceptional levels of energy. According to John Matthews, a research professor at the University of Utah’s Department of Physics and Astronomy, traditional astronomical events, including supernovas, are deemed inadequate in generating particles of such extraordinary energy.
The astonishing energy levels exhibited by these cosmic rays have left astrophysicists astounded, as the sheer power of particles like Amaterasu surpasses the theoretical limits of cosmic rays originating from other galaxies. The elusive nature of these particles, coupled with their extraordinary energy levels, presents an enigma that challenges our current understanding of cosmic phenomena.
Furthermore, the arrival direction of Amaterasu appears to originate from the Local Void, an empty expanse bordering the Milky Way galaxy. This leads to further speculation about the interstellar environments capable of producing such extreme-energy cosmic rays, urging astronomers to seek a deeper comprehension of the cosmic processes at play.
The ongoing observations and scientific inquiries into these extraordinary events are setting the stage for groundbreaking discoveries in the realm of astrophysics. With access to advanced technologies and collaborative research efforts, scientists strive to unravel the enigma behind these ultra-high-energy cosmic rays, shedding light on the cosmic phenomena that transcend our current understanding of the universe. As mankind continues its exploration of the cosmos, the detection of Amaterasu stands as a testament to the enduring fascination and ambition of unraveling the mysteries of the universe.
