Obstacles to observing the cosmic neutrino background

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In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of observing an event that occurred 1 μs after the Big Bang when neutrinos decoupled. While the technology to observe this event does not currently exist, it may be available in 200 years. However, there are physical obstacles such as the low energy of the neutrinos and the high background density of neutrinos from stars. It is uncertain if this event will ever be observed.
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bobsmith76
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I was delight to learn that there was an event about 1 μs after the Big Bang when neutrinos decoupled, making them in principle observable. We of course don't have the technology to observe the event now, but the lecturer who informed me of this said it might be available 200 years from now. What are the physical obstacles to observing such an event, and do you think it will ever be observed.
 
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- the neutrinos have a low energy by now (I don't know the value by heart, but you can find it somewhere). In general, the cross-section tends to increase with energy.
- the neutrino background density is probably low
- there are a lot of neutrinos from stars as background source

"200 years from now" = "it could be possible, but I don't see any way to do it"
 

1. What is the cosmic neutrino background?

The cosmic neutrino background is a sea of low-energy neutrinos that permeates the entire universe. These particles were created during the Big Bang and have been traveling through space since then, making them the oldest particles in the universe.

2. What are some obstacles to observing the cosmic neutrino background?

One of the main obstacles to observing the cosmic neutrino background is the fact that neutrinos interact very weakly with matter. This means that they can pass through large amounts of material without leaving a trace, making them difficult to detect. Additionally, the extremely low energies of these particles make them even harder to observe.

3. How can scientists overcome these obstacles?

Scientists are constantly developing new and more sensitive detectors to observe the cosmic neutrino background. These detectors use different methods such as measuring the tiny flashes of light produced when a neutrino interacts with matter or detecting the tiny amount of heat generated by the particle's interactions.

4. Why is it important to study the cosmic neutrino background?

Studying the cosmic neutrino background can provide valuable insights into the history and evolution of the universe. These particles can also help scientists understand the properties of matter and antimatter, as well as the fundamental forces that govern the universe.

5. Are there any current efforts to observe the cosmic neutrino background?

Yes, there are several ongoing efforts to observe the cosmic neutrino background. Some of these include the IceCube Neutrino Observatory in Antarctica, the Super-Kamiokande detector in Japan, and the upcoming KM3NeT detector in the Mediterranean Sea. These projects aim to detect and study the cosmic neutrino background in order to gain a better understanding of the universe we live in.

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