Project Title: Multifrequency Search for the Accelerators of Galactic Cosmic Ray Nuclei

Project Advisor: Dr. Yousaf Butt

Background: We will carry out a coordinated multifrequency study to identify the type(s) of objects responsible for accelerating Galactic cosmic ray nuclei up to energies of ~1015 eV. The proposed investigation will focus on ±10º of the Galactic plane and will use high-quality gamma-ray (VERITAS, GLAST, SWIFT & INTEGRAL) and X-ray (Chandra, XMM) observations in co-ordination with the lower frequency window (Spitzer, various ground-based mm & radio) as well as archival information. Such data will allow us to set stringent constraints on the contribution of electronic (inverse Compton & bremsstralung) versus nucleonic (pion decay) interactions to the production of the detected high-energy gamma-ray emissions. The high spatial resolutions and sensitivities of the space- and ground-based observatories in operation during the period of the proposed study will also permit us a unique opportunity to precisely ascribe the origins of the energetic radiation to specific astrophysical sites. e.g., GeV range gamma-radiation from a pulsar vs. nearby supernova shell-shocks will typically be resolvable by GLAST for the first time ever.

Scientific Questions: What are the origins of Galactic Cosmic Rays?

Scientific Methodology: Multifrequency observations & theory.

Other links related to this project

• The Galactic Cosmic Ray Origins Project