Measuring Cosmic Rays: There's an App for that

AI Thread Summary
Researchers from the University of California have explored the potential of using smartphones to detect cosmic rays, highlighting the capabilities of digital sensors in mobile devices. These sensors, typically designed to filter out infrared light, can inadvertently capture cosmic rays, which are high-energy particles from space. The discussion points out the challenges cosmic rays pose to astrophotography and space telescopes, where they can interfere with image clarity. The findings suggest a novel application for smartphones in scientific research, turning a common nuisance into a valuable detection tool. This innovative approach could enhance our understanding of cosmic phenomena.
TumblingDice
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A group of researchers from the University of California has published a paper regarding the viability of detecting cosmic rays using an array of 'SmartPhones'. I've read before that the digital sensors (photomultipliers?) in most cameras and cell phones detect infrared and, by design, this is filtered out by the camera lens. (EDIT: a filter behind the lens)

Who woulda' thought about cosmic rays? :w

Article here:
http://arstechnica.com/science/2014/10/cosmic-ray-particle-shower-theres-an-app-for-that/

PDF (7 pages) here:
http://crayfis.ps.uci.edu/paper.pdf
 
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Astronomy news on Phys.org
Interesting use of a phenomenon that us astrophotographers have to take pains to filter out of our images. Cosmic rays and high energy particles also plague the detectors of space telescopes. If you take a look at a raw exposure from the HST prior to processing you'd never guess that they could make clear images out of these exposures.
 

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