Ultrahigh energy cosmic rays

This is a review of the most resent results from the investigation of the Ultrahigh Energy Cosmic Rays, particles of energy exceeding 10$^{18}$ eV. After a general introduction to the topic and a brief review of the lower energy cosmic rays and the detection methods, the two most recent experiments,...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Reviews of modern physics 2011-09, Vol.83 (3), p.907-942
Main Authors: Letessier-Selvon, Antoine, Stanev, Todor
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Astrophysics
High Energy Astrophysical Phenomena
Physics
Sciences of the Universe
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Summary:This is a review of the most resent results from the investigation of the Ultrahigh Energy Cosmic Rays, particles of energy exceeding 10$^{18}$ eV. After a general introduction to the topic and a brief review of the lower energy cosmic rays and the detection methods, the two most recent experiments, the High Resolution Fly's Eye (HiRes) and the Southern Auger Observatory are described. We then concentrate on the results from these two experiments on the cosmic ray energy spectrum, the chemical composition of these cosmic rays and on the searches for their sources. We conclude with a brief analysis of the controversies in these results and the projects in development and construction that can help solve the remaining problems with these particles.
ISSN:0034-6861
1539-0756
DOI:10.1103/RevModPhys.83.907