Cosmic Ray Physics

Cosmic ray physics studies high-energy particles, primarily protons and heavier atomic nuclei, that travel through space at nearly the speed of light. These particles originate from sources like supernovae and active galactic nuclei. As they collide with particles in Earth's atmosphere, they create secondary particles, including neutrinos, which are elusive and provide insights into high-energy astrophysical processes. Understanding cosmic rays helps us learn about the fundamental workings of galactic and extragalactic environments, the behavior of astrophysical plasmas, and even the conditions in the early universe, bridging gaps between various fields in astrophysics and particle physics.