UHECRs: from mysterious sources in the Universe to a large-scale footprint at ground

by Dr Gina Isar (Institute of Space Science)

Thursday 2 Nov 2023, 15:00 → 16:30 Europe/Berlin

seminar room 3 (bldg. 1b)

Ultra-high energy cosmic rays (UHECRs) are the most mysterious particles in the Universe. After more than a century their origin and nature are still unknown, despite the enormous efforts scientists put nowadays collaboratively worldwide. Novel detection techniques are used in measuring indirectly the most energetic cosmic ray particles through their induced air showers. Tremendous efforts are also put on modeling both the propagation of cosmic rays through an (extra) galactic environment and the developing air showers in the Earth’s atmosphere. After a brief introduction of open questions and current highlights in UHECRs research, I will focus on the large-scale footprint of air showers recorded at the Pierre Auger Observatory. Tips and hints will also be introduced to students, on e.g. how to explore the Auger open data and emulate air showers with apps online.