Cosmic rays linked to supernovae
Posted: Tue, Feb 19, 2013, 7:12 AM ET (1212 GMT)
Astronomers have found evidence suggesting that high-energy cosmic rays are produced in the shock fronts of supernova explosions. Observations by ground and space-based telescopes of supernovae indicated that their expanding shock waves can accelerate protons to close to the speed of light; most cosmic rays are such high-speed protons. Gamma-ray observations confirmed this origin by detecting gamma rays at the energies expected when an accelerated proton collides with a stationary one. Astronomers had previously speculated that supernovae were the source of cosmic rays, but lacked proof before these observations.
Astronomers have found evidence suggesting that high-energy cosmic rays are produced in the shock fronts of supernova explosions. Observations by ground and space-based telescopes of supernovae indicated that their expanding shock waves can accelerate protons to close to the speed of light; most cosmic rays are such high-speed protons. Gamma-ray observations confirmed this origin by detecting gamma rays at the energies expected when an accelerated proton collides with a stationary one. Astronomers had previously speculated that supernovae were the source of cosmic rays, but lacked proof before these observations.
Related Links:
| <<previous article | next article>> |
|
news in brief
|
|
|
|
news links
|
|
Monday, March 10
SKY Perfect JSAT Selects Thales Alenia Space to build “JSAT-32” Communications Satellite
Thales Alenia Space — 5:44 am ET (0944 GMT) Missed shots at the moon are still scores for commercial space companies
The Hill — 5:43 am ET (0943 GMT) This couple's flight was rerouted midair after the SpaceX Starship exploded. They saw flaming debris out their window.
Business Insider — 5:41 am ET (0941 GMT) China launches communication technology test satellite
Xinhua — 5:32 am ET (0932 GMT) China expands secretive satellite series with launch of TJS-15
Space News — 5:28 am ET (0928 GMT) |
