UD’s CosmicWatch detector reveals invisible particles from space

University of Delaware physics professor Spencer Axani invented CosmicWatch, a portable and affordable particle detector that reveals invisible muons originating from extreme cosmic events. These muons, created when high-energy cosmic rays collide with Earth’s atmosphere, help scientists study phenomena like exploding stars and blazars. Originally designed as an educational tool, CosmicWatch is now utilized in international astrophysics experiments and classrooms nationwide, bringing particle physics to a new generation. After joining the UD faculty in 2022, Axani released the third version of CosmicWatch. “CosmicWatch detectors allow us to do far more physics at a dramatically lower cost,” Axani said, “opening the door to many new kinds of experiments and outreach opportunities.” CosmicWatch is enabling detailed study of atmospheric muons with a footprint significantly smaller than traditional detectors; a…