Ultra High Energy Cosmic Ray Accelerators
Abstract
Description
The surprising lack of a high energy cutoff in the cosmic ray spectrum at the highest energies together with an apparently isotropic distribution of arrival directions have strongly challenged most models proposed for the acceleration of ultra high energy cosmic rays. Young neutron star winds may be able to explain the mystery. We discuss this recent proposal after summarizing the observational challenge and plausible acceleration sites. Young neutrons star winds differ from alternative models in the predictions for composition, spectrum, and angular distribution which will be tested in future experiments.
8 pages, presented at "Highly Energetic Physical Processes and Mechanisms for Emissions from Astrophysical Plasmas", IAU Colloquium 195, P.C.H. Martens and S. Tsuruta (eds.)
8 pages, presented at "Highly Energetic Physical Processes and Mechanisms for Emissions from Astrophysical Plasmas", IAU Colloquium 195, P.C.H. Martens and S. Tsuruta (eds.)