Scientists Discover an Extremely High-Energy Cosmic Particle Named Amaterasu

Some scientists speculate that the anomalies could be attributed to defects in the fabric of spacetime or the collision of cosmic strings, while others consider the possibility of an unidentified source within the Local Void.

Scientists Discover an Extremely High-Energy Cosmic Particle Named Amaterasu
Image: Osaka Metropolitan University/Kyoto University/Ryuunosuke Takeshige/PA

Astronomers from around the world are scratching their heads after the recent detection of an incredibly high-energy cosmic particle known as Amaterasu, which is falling to Earth from what appears to be an empty region of space. This rare and astonishing discovery has left scientists puzzled as they grapple with the mystery of its origin.

The Amaterasu particle, named after the Japanese sun goddess, is among the most energetic cosmic rays ever observed. It boasts an energy level exceeding 240 exa-electron volts (EeV), which is millions of times higher than particles generated within the Large Hadron Collider, the most powerful particle accelerator on Earth. It follows closely behind the famous 'Oh-My-God' particle, another ultra-high-energy cosmic ray detected back in 1991, with an energy of 320 EeV.

Traditionally, only colossal cosmic events, such as massive supernova explosions, were believed to have the potential to produce particles of this magnitude. However, Amaterasu's apparent emergence from the Local Void, a desolate area of space bordering the Milky Way galaxy, challenges conventional understanding.

Some scientists speculate that the anomalies could be attributed to defects in the fabric of spacetime or the collision of cosmic strings, while others consider the possibility of an unidentified source within the Local Void. Regardless of the explanation, this discovery challenges our current understanding of high-energy particle physics.

The Telescope Array observatory in Utah, equipped to detect ultra-high-energy cosmic rays, is at the forefront of this cosmic mystery.