Abdelrahman
Major Breakthrough in Particle Physics Complicated by Academic Strife
A remarkable advancement in particle physics has been complicated by academic politics, following the dismissal of an Israeli scientist from an esteemed international research initiative. The groundbreaking study, published in Nature, reveals the detection of an ultra-high-energy neutrino, often referred to as the "ghost particle," in the Mediterranean Sea. This neutrino boasts energy levels that are thirty times higher than the previous record, marking a significant achievement in the field of astrophysics.
Professor Dafne Guetta, a physicist affiliated with Ariel University, played a vital role in this discovery. However, in the wake of the October 7 terror attack in Israel, various academic institutions instituted a boycott against Israeli researchers, resulting in her removal from the research team.
"We have been aware of high-energy particles since cosmic rays were discovered, which are composed of protons—charged particles that can be altered by magnetic fields during their journey to Earth," Guetta explained during an interview with Ynet. "This makes tracing their origins challenging. In contrast, neutrinos are neutral and remain unaffected by magnetic fields, allowing them to travel directly from their source. This unique property makes them invaluable messengers that convey undistorted information from distant cosmic events."
To trace the origins of these high-energy neutrinos, scientists utilize data retrieved from astronomical observations across optical and ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths. One potential source identified includes celestial bodies that emit high-energy photons, such as active galaxies like NGC 1068. The challenge arises, however, as these photons are often absorbed by their surrounding environments, complicating the observation process.
"In order to tackle this issue, we need to adopt alternative observational strategies and create new ‘windows’ into the sky," Guetta stated.
Conducted at Ariel University’s AGASS research center, which specializes in space studies and advanced data analysis, Guetta’s research was integral to the international team responsible for detecting the neutrino. Despite her critical contributions, the KM3NeT detector project’s governing body removed her from collaboration following the October 7 Hamas attack.
"There should be no place for discrimination in the realm of science," Guetta commented. "Even though I am no longer part of this consortium, this discovery holds immense significance with the potential to revolutionize high-energy astrophysics and fundamental physics. My passion for physics began at 15 years old, and I sincerely hope that political agendas will cease to impede scientific advancements."
Looking forward, Guetta’s research team is focused on analyzing optical data to make connections between radiation emissions and the sources of neutrinos. She emphasized Israel’s essential role in advancing this field, particularly with the upcoming launch of the ULTRASAT satellite, which will enhance the detection of high-energy neutrino origins.
"ULTRASAT will empower us to observe cosmic phenomena in real-time and identify possible sources of these elusive particles," she expressed.
Despite her substantial contributions, Guetta’s name was omitted from the list of contributors in the Nature publication that acknowledges numerous scientists from across the globe.
This discovery of the ultra-high-energy neutrino represents a pivotal moment in enhancing our understanding of the physical mechanisms at play in the far reaches of space. By utilizing state-of-the-art technology—from deep-sea detectors to space-based observatories—scientists are steadily progressing toward demystifying cosmic rays and the complexities of high-energy astrophysics.
