A $100 Detector Sees Invisible Particles Falling from Space

Topic: Research News

Scientists have created a device called CosmicWatch that can detect tiny particles from space. These particles are invisible to our eyes and can pass through Earth's atmosphere. The detector is small, affordable, and easy to use.

Tiny particles from space are passing through Earth all the time. We can't see them with our eyes or feel them in any way. These particles are linked to cosmic rays, which are extremely energetic particles that come from exploding stars and other violent events far beyond our solar system.

University of Delaware physics professor Spencer Axani has developed a device called CosmicWatch. It's a small box-like detector that can see these invisible particles. The technology is now being used by everyone from high school students to professional researchers.

CosmicWatch was initially created as an inexpensive way to introduce students to particle physics. Since then, it has found a role in international astrophysics research as well. Axani said,

Implications

Scientists have created a device called CosmicWatch that can detect tiny particles from space. These particles are invisible to our eyes and can pass through Earth's atmosphere. The detector is small, affordable, and easy to use.