Justin Bray

Justin Bray Colloquium: The moon as a particle detector

Marsfield Lecture Theatre

Abstract

Title: The moon as a particle detector

Abstract: The origin of ultra-high-energy cosmic rays remains frustratingly unknown, and identifying it requires the use of extremely large particle detectors. The radio pulse produced when an energetic particle interacts in the moon provides a possible solution: if these pulses can be detected, then the moon itself can be used as a detector. In this end-of-PhD talk, I will describe my work as part of the LUNASKA collaboration, developing the techniques required for this form of radio astronomy and applying them in experiments with Parkes and the ATCA, as well as the outlook for future studies of cosmic rays.