The Telescope Array experiment, launched in 2008, includes 507 ground stations spread over an area of ​​700 square kilometers in Utah, USA. The mission aims to capture elusive cosmic rays, with an emphasis on those that reach energy levels exceeding 1018 electron volts, a value far beyond what man-made accelerators can achieve.

a grand opening

On May 27, 2021, the team recorded a cosmic ray with an impressive energy level of 244 EeV, rivaling the famous particle. My godIt was discovered in 1991. Professor Toshihiro Fujii expressed disbelief at first, noting the unprecedented energy levels seen in the last three decades.

The decision to name the particle “amaterasu“It draws inspiration from Japanese mythology, particularly the sun goddess who is central to Shinto beliefs credited with the creation of Japan. The naming reflects the mystery of the goddess herself, emphasizing the mysterious origin and nature of the particle.”

Despite careful efforts, researchers have still been unable to pinpoint the source of the Amaterasu particle. Professor Fujii noted that no identifiable astronomical objects were recorded in the direction from which the particle came. This absence has led to speculation about potentially unknown astronomical events and physical origins beyond the standard model.

As the scientific community grapples with the mysteries surrounding the Amaterasu particle, ongoing research promises to uncover unprecedented information about the universe, challenge existing paradigms, and expand the boundaries of our understanding of the universe.