Using a grid of light detectors similar to the Baikal telescope, IceCube identified a neutrino in 2017 that scientists said almost certainly came from a supermassive black hole. It was the first time that scientists had pinpointed a source of the rain of high-energy particles from space known as cosmic rays ...
swampwiz said:I had thought that cosmic rays were protons
No, cosmic rays are not only neutrinos. Cosmic rays are high-energy particles that originate from outer space and can include protons, electrons, and atomic nuclei. Neutrinos are one type of cosmic ray, but they make up a small percentage of the total cosmic ray population.
Cosmic rays are produced by a variety of sources, including supernovae explosions, active galactic nuclei, and other high-energy astrophysical events. Some cosmic rays may also be produced by interactions between high-energy particles and interstellar gas or dust.
Yes, cosmic rays can potentially harm humans if they have high enough energy and are able to penetrate the Earth's atmosphere. However, the majority of cosmic rays are absorbed by the Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere, so the risk to humans is relatively low.
Scientists use a variety of methods to detect cosmic rays, including ground-based detectors, satellites, and high-altitude balloons. These detectors can measure the energy, direction, and type of cosmic rays that reach Earth.
Studying cosmic rays can provide valuable insights into the universe and its origins. By understanding the properties and sources of cosmic rays, scientists can learn more about the physical processes that occur in extreme environments, such as supernovae explosions and black holes. Additionally, studying cosmic rays can also help us better understand the effects of high-energy radiation on spacecraft and astronauts.