How did THIS ghost particle become 30 times more energetic than any other?

Scientists have detected the most powerful 'ghost particle' ever recorded using a neutrino detector in the depths of the Mediterranean Sea. This newly discovered particle is 30 times more energetic than any particle previously observed on Earth, marking a significant breakthrough in physics research.

According to an Associated Press report, this unprecedented discovery surpasses all prior neutrino detections in terms of energy levels and activity. Researchers speculate that the particle originated from beyond the Milky Way galaxy, although its exact source remains unknown.

The most energetic 'ghost particle' found underwater

Reuters reported that this discovery was made using the Cubic Kilometer Neutrino Telescope (KM3NeT), an advanced neutrino detection system comprising two large detectors. Pascal Coyle, a physicist at the Marseille Particle Physics Center (CPPM) in France, stated in a paper published in Nature that “this is an entirely unexplored region of energy.” Meanwhile, Art Heijboer from the Nikhef National Institute for Subatomic Physics in the Netherlands described the particle’s energy as “extraordinary.”

Potential implications of the discovery

The findings suggest the possible existence of more powerful ghost particles on Earth. “This is an indication that we are on the right track, and perhaps there are surprises ahead,” said physicist Denver Whittington from Syracuse University, who was not directly involved in the study, as reported by AP.

Understanding ghost particles

Neutrinos, often called 'ghost particles,' are emitted by stars and are nearly undetectable due to their negligible mass and lack of electrical charge. According to an AFP report, they are the second most abundant particles in the universe and can pass through our bodies in trillions without interaction.

Challenges in detecting neutrinos

Italian researcher Rosa Coniglione emphasized that neutrinos act as “special cosmic messengers” when they reach Earth. She explained that they provide a rare glimpse into distant regions of the universe. Despite the difficulty in detecting neutrinos directly, scientists analyze their interactions with matter to study their behavior.