Large High Altitude Air Shower Observatory, Cosmic-ray observatory in Sichuan Province, China
The Large High Altitude Air Shower Observatory is a research facility located at 4410 meters elevation in the Sichuan mountains, where scientists capture cosmic rays using specialized detection equipment. The site operates a large network of water Cherenkov detectors and electromagnetic instruments to observe particles arriving from space.
The observatory was founded in 2017 by the Chinese Academy of Sciences and represents a major step forward in modern radiation physics and gamma-ray research. The facility was built to investigate mysteries about the origins of cosmic rays and celestial phenomena.
Scientists from multiple Chinese research institutes collaborate at LHAASO to study the origins of cosmic rays and galactic phenomena.
The extreme elevation and remote location require acclimatization before visiting the site, as your body needs time to adjust to the thin air conditions. Visitors should bring sturdy footwear and warm clothing, since weather in this mountain region can change unpredictably.
The observatory has detected extremely energetic radiation arriving from space at intensities that scientists previously thought were impossible. These discoveries help experts understand how the most powerful energy sources in the universe work.
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