Unknown extremely energetic particle from space detected and named after Japanese myth. A high-energy particle falls from space to the Earth’s surface—it is not clear where it came from or even what it is, exactly. This may sound like something out of science fiction, but it is in fact a scientif

“When I first discovered this ultra-high-energy cosmic ray, I thought there must have been a mistake, as it showed an energy level unprecedented in the last 3 decades,” shared Professor Fujii.

Such an energy level is comparable to that of the most energetic cosmic ray ever observed, dubbed the “Oh-My-God” particle, which had an estimated energy of 320 EeV when detected in 1991.

…

“No promising astronomical object matching the direction from which the cosmic ray arrived has been identified, suggesting possibilities of unknown astronomical phenomena and novel physical origins beyond the Standard Model,” Professor Fujii mused.

    • ᴇᴍᴘᴇʀᴏʀ 帝OPMAEnglish
      1·
      1 year ago

      Once we can generate energies that high the question would be: should be ping back? It could be a way to ascertain where on the Kardashev scale we are but would that bring friendly First Contact or a Berserker Probe?

      • GreatAlbatrossAEnglish
        2·
        1 year ago

        We just have to hope that the sender doesn’t live on a planet orbited by three suns.

    • NerfHerder@lemm.ee
      34·
      1 year ago

      I mean, I asked ChatGPT:

      What would be a likely purpose of directing a particle with an energy level of 244 EeV at another planet?

      Reaponse:

      Directing a particle with an energy level of 244 EeV at another planet could be part of scientific research or experimentation. By studying the interactions of such high-energy particles with the atmosphere or surface of the target planet, scientists may gain insights into the planet’s composition, atmosphere, and other physical properties. This could provide valuable data for understanding celestial bodies, their geological processes, and the broader conditions in our solar system or beyond. However, it’s essential to note that as of my last knowledge update in January 2022, there haven’t been instances of intentionally directing such high-energy particles at planets for research purposes.

      • ᴇᴍᴘᴇʀᴏʀ 帝OPMAEnglish
        1·
        1 year ago

        I suppose it’s also a calling card.

        However, it’s essential to note that as of my last knowledge update in January 2022, there haven’t been instances of intentionally directing such high-energy particles at planets for research purposes.

        We might have heard of that.