地下700米捕捉“幽灵粒子” 我国开启中微子研究新篇章

Core Insights - The Jiangmen Neutrino Experiment (JUNO) has officially commenced data collection, aiming to address significant questions in particle physics, particularly the mass ordering of neutrinos [1][2] - Neutrinos are fundamental particles that are abundant in the universe but are difficult to detect due to their weak interaction with matter [1] - The experiment is a continuation of China's efforts in neutrino research, following the Daya Bay experiment, and is expected to enhance the understanding of neutrino oscillation parameters and other astrophysical phenomena [1][2] Experiment Details - The core detector of the JUNO is a 35-meter diameter acrylic sphere filled with 20,000 tons of liquid scintillator, equipped with thousands of photomultiplier tubes to detect faint light signals produced by neutrino interactions [2] - The construction of the detector involved significant challenges, including the precise control of water levels and flow rates to ensure stability and safety [2] - The experiment is a collaboration involving approximately 700 researchers from 17 countries and regions, marking it as a large-scale scientific endeavor [2] Future Prospects - The JUNO is designed for a lifespan of 30 years, with potential upgrades to conduct double beta decay experiments, which could provide insights into the absolute mass of neutrinos and their nature as Majorana particles [2]