Messengers of the Universe-Cosmic Rays Exploring Supermassive Black Holes

Abstract

Cosmic rays were discovered over one hundred years ago but there are still unsolved problems. One of the hot problems is the origin of cosmic rays of the highest energies. Sources are still unclear and it is neither clear how particles gain ultra-high energies. Possible sources of cosmic rays at the highest energies are supermassive black holes. From this perspective we discuss in a popular form some recent developments in cosmic ray studies along with author’s recent results. The paper also offers materials for further reading.

Keywords

• cosmic rays
• ultra-high energies
• active galactic nuclei
• supermassive black holes