Future ground arrays for ultrahigh-energy cosmic rays: recent updates and perspectives

Abstract

The origin and nature of ultrahigh-energy cosmic rays (UHECRs) are one of the most intriguing mysteries in particle astrophysics and astronomy. The two largest observatories, the Pierre Auger Observatory and the Telescope Array Experiment, are steadily observing UHECRs in both hemispheres in order to better understand their origin and associated acceleration mechanisms at the highest energies. We highlight their latest results including on-going upgrades, AugerPrime and TA×4, and then address the requirements for a next-generation observatory. We share recent updates and perspectives for a future ground array of fluorescence detectors, addressing the requirements for a large-area, low-cost detector suitable for measuring the properties of the highest energy cosmic rays with an unprecedented aperture.