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Cosmic Rays

High-energy particles that fly through the universe at close to the speed of light. Cosmic rays are mostly bare protons and electrons. Some probably are blasted into space from exploding stars, while others may come from the disks of material that encircle the supermassive black holes in the centers of galaxies.

Radio Programs

Quiet Sun Cosmic bombardment in tree rings April 5, 2017

Cosmic Rays III Probing a meltdown with help from the stars November 30, 2016

More Cosmic Rays Shielded by the Sun November 29, 2016

Cosmic Rays The calling cards of exploding stars November 28, 2016

Rare Elements Creating elements between the stars August 12, 2013

Anti-Discovery The possible signature of dark matter June 25, 2013

On Station New “eyes” for the space station June 23, 2013

At the Edge At the edge of the solar system June 7, 2013

Muons Zapped by a supernova April 28, 2013

Balloon Ride Taking a balloon ride for science April 6, 2012

Featured Images

Cosmic ray shower

Cosmic Showers November 28, 2016
Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer aboard the International Space Station

Magnetic Personality June 26, 2013
Victor Hess prepares to ascend in a balloon to study cosmic rays, 1912

Radiation Hunter April 7, 2012
Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer-2 attached to the International Space Station

On Duty May 23, 2011
Space shutle Endeavour launches on its final mission, June 16, 2011

Final Endeavour May 16, 2011