什么？！科学家正在地下捉“鬼”？

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the ongoing efforts of Chinese scientists to capture neutrinos, referred to as "ghost particles," through the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), highlighting the significance of neutrinos in understanding the universe and the technological challenges involved in the experiment [1][5][22]. Group 1: Neutrino Characteristics - Neutrinos are one of the fundamental particles of the universe, with an estimated 300 neutrinos per cubic centimeter present everywhere due to the remnants of the Big Bang [2][5]. - They travel at nearly the speed of light and have a very weak interaction with matter, making them extremely difficult to detect [2][4]. Group 2: Scientific Importance - Neutrinos carry crucial information about the universe, including insights into the nature of antimatter and the fundamental properties of matter [5][6]. - The study of neutrinos has been a significant area of research in physics, with major discoveries leading to Nobel Prizes [9]. Group 3: Experimental Setup - The JUNO facility is located 700 meters underground to minimize interference from cosmic rays, which can disrupt neutrino detection [10][12]. - The experimental setup includes a large central detector submerged in a water pool, designed to capture neutrinos produced by nearby nuclear power plants [10][17]. Group 4: Technological Innovations - The project has required the development of new technologies, including advanced photomultiplier tubes and high-purity liquid scintillator systems, to achieve unprecedented detection capabilities [14][16]. - The JUNO experiment is noted for being the world's largest and most precise neutrino detection facility, with a design lifespan of 30 years [12][16]. Group 5: Future Prospects - The experiment began data collection in August 2023, with expectations of significant findings in the next three to five years, potentially coinciding with rare astronomical events like supernovae [20][22]. - The research aims to position China at the forefront of fundamental scientific research, contributing to global knowledge in the field [22].