The energy spectrum of cosmic-ray electrons at TeV energies

TL;DR

This paper presents the first measurement of the cosmic-ray electron spectrum above 600 GeV using ground-based gamma-ray telescopes, revealing a steepening in the spectrum at high energies.

Contribution

It introduces a novel method of measuring the cosmic-ray electron spectrum at TeV energies with ground-based telescopes, extending beyond direct measurement capabilities.

Findings

Evidence of spectral steepening above 600 GeV

First measurement of electron spectrum at TeV energies with ground-based telescopes

Extends the energy range of cosmic-ray electron measurements

Abstract

The very large collection area of ground-based gamma-ray telescopes gives them a substantial advantage over balloon/satellite based instruments in the detection of very-high-energy (>600 GeV) cosmic-ray electrons. Here we present the electron spectrum derived from data taken with the H.E.S.S. system of imaging atmospheric Cherenkov telescopes. In this measurement, the first of this type, we are able to extend the measurement of the electron spectrum beyond the range accessible to direct measurements. We find evidence for a substantial steepening in the energy spectrum above 600 GeV compared to lower energies.