Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
2000-07-14
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
13 pages, 3 figures. Invited Talk at the Vulcano Workshop `Frontier Objects in Astrophysics and Particle Physics', May 22-27,
Scientific paper
While several arguments can be proposed against the existence of particles with energy in excess of $(3-5)\times 10^{19}$ eV in the cosmic ray spectrum, these particles are actually observed and their origin seeks for an explanation. After a description of the problems encountered in explaining these ultra-high energy cosmic rays (UHECRs) in the context of astrophysical sources, we will review the so-called {\it Top-Down} (TD) Models, in which UHECRs are the result of the decay of very massive unstable particles, possibly created in the Early Universe. Particular emphasis will be given to the signatures of the TD models, likely to be accessible to upcoming experiments like Auger.
No associations
LandOfFree
Opening the ultra high energy cosmic ray window from the top does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Opening the ultra high energy cosmic ray window from the top, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Opening the ultra high energy cosmic ray window from the top will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-552185