Physics
A cosmic ray dubbed Amaterasu is the second most powerful one we have ever seen, beaten only by the “Oh-My-God particle”. Both have baffled astronomers and defy explanation
By Alex Wilkins
Illustration of an ultra-high-energy cosmic ray hitting Earth
Osaka Metropolitan University/L-INSIGHT, Kyoto University/Ryuunosuke Takeshige
Astronomers have detected the second most powerful cosmic ray ever recorded, but it seems to have come from an empty region of the universe known as a cosmic void, where there is nothing obvious it could have originated from.
This mysterious cosmic ray, which is probably a charged particle nucleus of some variety, such as carbon or oxygen, has been dubbed Amaterasu after the Japanese sun goddess.
Possible explanations for it include magnetic fields steering the particle off-course, an invisible source in another…
View introductory offers
No commitment, cancel anytime*
Offer ends 28th October 2023.
*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.
Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)
or
Existing subscribers
Sign in to your account
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features
>>> Read full article>>>
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source : New Scientist – https://www.newscientist.com/article/2404603-a-mysterious-incredibly-energetic-cosmic-ray-has-smashed-into-earth/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home