Cosmic Rays Explained

Cosmic rays are high-energy particles originating from beyond our solar system, primarily composed of protons and heavier atomic nuclei. When they collide with Earth's atmosphere, they create new particles and radiation, often at energies surpassing those achieved in particle accelerators. Understanding the energy levels of these cosmic rays, measured in electron volts, reveals the vast range of their impact, from common occurrences to rare, extremely energetic events.