A next-generation astronomy using the most energetic particles in the universe

Dr. Toshihiro Fujii
Nambu Yoichiro Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Physics (NITEP), Osaka Metropolitan University

Clarifying origins and acceleration mechanisms of the most energetic particles in the universe has been a decades-long endeavor, being one of the most intriguing mysteries in an interdisciplinary research among astroparticle physics, high-energy physics and nuclear physics. Since ultra-high energy cosmic rays (UHECRs) are deflected less strongly by the Galactic and extra-galactic magnetic fields due to their enormous kinetic energies, their arrival directions are ostensively correlated with their origins. A next-generation "astronomy" using UHECRs is hence a potentially viable probe to unravel mysteries of extremely energetic phenomena in the nearby universe. In this talk, I will highlight an introductory cosmic-ray physics, detection techniques and latest results of the two giant observatories in operation; Telescope Array experiment and Pierre Auger Observatory, including their on-going upgrades and then address scientific objectives, requirements and developments for future UHECR observatories.

A2F Conference hall (1236),　Via Zoom