The question of the origin of cosmic rays has remained one of the greatest mysteries of astrophysics for more than a century. A new breakthrough in this field carried out a joint team of scientists from Tsinghua University, Anhui Normal University, and the University of Science and Technology of China.
Using the unique capabilities of the 500-meter spherical radio telescope FAST (known as the "Chinese Sky Eye"), researchers have obtained the first direct evidence that low-energy cosmic rays originate from star-forming regions. The results of this work are published in the prestigious scientific journal The Astrophysical Journal Letters.
Key aspects of the study
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New analysis method: Scientists have applied their own independent methodology to study high-precision observations of the distribution of atomic hydrogen in the Orion molecular cloud.
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A new role for stars: It has been discovered that young stars not only emit light, but also generate powerful shock waves during their formation. It is this activity that launches low-energy rays that energize the interstellar medium and trigger complex chemical reactions.
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Overcoming the solar shield: Measuring these rays near Earth is nearly impossible because the Sun's magnetic field and solar wind reliably block them. FAST was able to circumvent this limitation by observing distant atomic hydrogen.
Why it matters: Low-energy cosmic rays are the main driver of the chemical evolution of galaxies. They directly influence how interstellar gas condenses, forming new generations of stars and planets.
Comparison of cosmic rays by energy level
| Characterization | High-energy rays | Low-energy rays |
| Main source | Supernova remnants, active galactic nuclei | Star forming regions (confirmed by FAST) |
| The influence of magnetic fields | Slightly deviated, moving almost straight | Easily change trajectory under the influence of magnetic fields |
| Role in space | Research of extreme physical processes | Stimulating the chemical evolution of the interstellar medium |
| Accessibility for measurement | Detected by ground-based and orbital detectors | Blocked by the Sun's heliosphere near Earth |
This success demonstrates the irreplaceable role of FAST as the most sensitive single-aperture radio telescope in the world. The new approach paves the way for global mapping of cosmic radiation throughout the Milky Way.
Recall that to study large-scale cosmic processes and the evolution of galaxies, astronomers often use complex observations from various observatories. We also recommend reading the material on how James Webb Telescope studies the black hole and center of the galaxy Centaurus A at HiTech Expert.
