Gamma-ray Signatures of Ultra High Energy Cosmic Ray Line-of-sight Interactions

TL;DR

This paper discusses the potential to detect gamma-ray signatures from ultra high energy cosmic rays interacting en route to Earth, emphasizing the role of magnetic fields and observational prospects with Cherenkov telescopes.

Contribution

It summarizes current findings and future prospects for detecting gamma-ray signatures of UHECR interactions with advanced telescopes.

Findings

Potential detectability of gamma-ray fluxes from UHECR interactions.

Importance of weak intergalactic magnetic fields for detection.

Use of current and next-generation Cherenkov telescopes.

Abstract

Ultra High Energy Cosmic Rays (UHECRs) interact en route to Earth, producing secondary gamma-rays. For the case of high cosmic ray power and weak intergalactic magnetic fields, the deflections of these UHECRs may be small leading to detectable gamma-ray fluxes that point back to their origin. We summarize current results and prospects of detecting a signature of these interactions using the current and next generation of imaging atmospheric Cherenkov telescopes.