Cosmic Rays: Origin, Composition, and Detection Techniques, a Review

Authors: Jaza Anwar Sayyed, Ansari Novman Nabeel, Ansari Ammara Firdaus

Abstract: Cosmic rays are high-energy charged particles from astrophysical sources like supernovae, AGNs, and gamma-ray bursts, continuously bombarding Earth's atmosphere. Their study provides insights into high-energy astrophysics, particle acceleration, and fundamental physics beyond the Standard Model. Spanning energies from MeV to over 10201020eV, cosmic rays interact with the atmosphere, producing secondary particles that influence atmospheric ionization and space weather. Detection methods include space-based observatories (AMS-02, BESS, CREAM), ground-based arrays (Pierre Auger Observatory, Telescope Array), and Cherenkov telescopes (HESS, MAGIC, VERITAS), along with cloud chambers for direct particle visualization. Cosmic rays contribute to multi-messenger astronomy, linking observations with gravitational waves and neutrinos. Future experiments like CTA and JEM-EUSO aim to further explore their origins and extreme energy properties, advancing astrophysics and particle physics.