Ponente
Descripción
Since 2010, the JEM-EUSO (Joint Exploratory Missions for Extreme Universe Space Observatory) collaboration has been developing an ambitious program to observe Ultra-High-Energy Cosmic Rays (UHECRs) and related phenomena from space. These particles, with energies exceeding 10²⁰ eV, carry crucial information about the most extreme astrophysical environments, yet are difficult to study due to their extremely low flux.
The collaboration’s primary goal is to develop a space-based observatory equipped with an ultra-fast, high-sensitivity UV camera, capable of detecting extensive air showers generated when UHECRs interact with the Earth’s atmosphere. A dedicated Cherenkov camera has also been developed to evaluate the feasibility of the Earth-skimming technique from high altitudes. Fluorescence and Cherenkov detectors can be combined into a hybrid detection system, enhancing observational capabilities. Observing from orbit allows for a significant increase in exposure and near-uniform full-sky coverage, complementing ground-based efforts.
The JEM-EUSO collaboration follows a multi-platform strategy. Ground-based (EUSO-TA) and balloon-borne missions (EUSO-Balloon, EUSO-SPB1, EUSO-SPB2) have tested key technologies and validated detection techniques, while the space-based Mini-EUSO instrument aboard the ISS has delivered valuable data on UV backgrounds, transient luminous events, meteoroids, and more. These pathfinder missions have laid the groundwork for future large-scale projects, including M-EUSO and POEMMA (Probe Of Extreme Multi-Messenger Astrophysics). The upcoming PBR (POEMMA Balloon with Radio) mission, scheduled for launch in 2027, will add a radio-detection capability to the program.
This presentation will summarize the scientific and technological milestones of the JEM-EUSO program, highlight updated objectives based on recent findings, and outline the roadmap toward space-based UHECR astronomy and broader multi-messenger exploration—including studies of meteoroids, nuclearites, and strange quark matter.
