cosmic ray observatories

Cosmic ray observatories are specialized facilities that detect high-energy particles from outer space called cosmic rays. These particles originate from energetic astrophysical events like supernovae or black holes, traveling vast distances to reach Earth. When cosmic rays hit the Earth's atmosphere, they create showers of secondary particles. Observatories use advanced instruments—such as ground-based detectors, telescopes, or arrays—to track these particles and analyze their properties. Studying cosmic rays helps scientists understand extreme cosmic phenomena, the universe’s composition, and fundamental physics at energies beyond Earth's most powerful accelerators.