astropartikel

Astropartikel is a German-language term often used to refer to particles of astronomical origin that are studied within the field of astroparticle physics. The concept encompasses a variety of high-energy and weakly interacting constituents such as cosmic-ray nuclei and protons, high-energy photons (gamma rays), neutrinos, and hypothetical dark-matter candidates like weakly interacting massive particles and axions.

Astroparticle research examines the origin, acceleration, propagation, and interactions of these particles as they travel through space and reach Earth. It sits at the interface of particle physics, astronomy and cosmology and employs both ground- and space-based observatories. Typical detection methods include extensive air-shower arrays and ground-based Cherenkov telescopes for cosmic rays and gamma rays, deep-underground or under-ice neutrino telescopes for neutrinos, and sensitive low-background laboratory experiments for rare-event searches linked to dark matter. Space missions and satellite instruments also contribute measurements of charged particles and gamma-ray spectra.

The historical roots of the discipline trace to early 20th-century discoveries such as Victor Hess’s detection of cosmic rays; it expanded in the late 20th and early 21st centuries with the emergence of neutrino astronomy and precision cosmic-ray measurements. Studies of astroparticles provide unique insights into high-energy astrophysical processes, particle interactions at extreme energies, and conditions in the early universe, making the field central to contemporary efforts to connect microphysical laws with astronomical phenomena.