Ultimate precision in cosmic-ray radio detection --- the SKA

TL;DR

The SKA's low-frequency array will enable ultra-precise cosmic-ray detection through radio emission measurements, significantly improving reconstruction accuracy of cosmic-ray properties.

Contribution

This work proposes using the SKA's dense antenna array for cosmic-ray detection, achieving unprecedented precision in measuring cosmic-ray parameters.

Findings

Expected depth-of-shower-maximum resolution of 6 g/cm^2

Superior reconstruction of arrival direction and energy

Potential for cosmic-ray studies at 10^17 eV energy range

Abstract

As of 2023, the low-frequency part of the Square Kilometre Array will go online in Australia. It will constitute the largest and most powerful low-frequency radio-astronomical observatory to date, and will facilitate a rich science programme in astronomy and astrophysics. With modest engineering changes, it will also be able to measure cosmic rays via the radio emission from extensive air showers. The extreme antenna density and the homogeneous coverage provided by more than 60,000 antennas within an area of one km$^2$ will push radio detection of cosmic rays in the energy range around 10$^{17}$ eV to ultimate precision, with superior capabilities in the reconstruction of arrival direction, energy, and an expected depth-of-shower-maximum resolution of 6~g/cm${^2}$.