Scientists have detected the most energetic cosmic “ghost particle” ever recorded on Earth, deep under the Mediterranean Sea. The neutrino, named KM3-230213A, was found by researchers at the Cubic Kilometer Neutrino Telescope (KM3NeT) collaboration using a giant network of sensors forming a submerged telescope.
The neutrino was measured to have an energy of about 120 quadrillion electronvolts, 30 times higher than any other previously observed particle of its kind. Despite its elusive nature, the direction of the neutrino’s travel should point back to the mysterious cosmic accelerators that launched it.
The detection is rare and was made by one of the two detectors in the system, which was operating at only 10 percent capacity when it picked up the signal. The neutrino interacted with matter, creating a splash of particles that were detectable by the detector.
Experts are intrigued by the finding, as it suggests there might be more high-energy neutrinos flying through space than previously thought. While the precise source of the neutrino remains unknown, the detection marks a potential new phase in understanding the cosmos.
Source: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/a-record-breaking-ghost-particle-from-outer-space-made-a-splash-of-light-in-the-mediterranean-180986062