Science & technology | Neutrino astronomy

Deep and meaningful

In some cases, the best place from which to admire the heavens is the seabed

Oct 24th 2002|

ASTRONOMERS usually look up. But some astronomy is better conducted by looking down. Although the earth is opaque to the light, radio waves, X-rays, gamma rays and other forms of electromagnetic radiation that are the stock-in-trade of most astronomy, it is transparent to particles called neutrinos. Point a suitable telescope downwards, therefore, and the chances are that you will see nothing but neutrinos. Sink it deep under water, and you will get an even better view, since the water will help to screen out confusing radiation coming from above.

This article appeared in the Science & technology section of the print edition under the headline “Deep and meaningful”