First Results from the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer Experiment
The Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS) Collaboration has announced the publication of its first physics result in the journal Physical Review Letters. AMS, the most advanced and sensitive particle physics spectrometer ever deployed in space, has been operational on the exterior of the International Space Station (ISS) since May 19, 2011. Since its installation, AMS has measured over 30 billion cosmic rays with energies reaching up to trillions of electron volts. This groundbreaking experiment aims to explore the mysteries of cosmic rays and contribute to our understanding of the universe.
AMS Hadronic Tomography
Since beginning its operations on the ISS in May 2011, AMS has been conducting extremely precise measurements of cosmic rays, including protons and helium nuclei, with unprecedented sensitivity. One notable achievement is the “tomographic” reconstruction of the materials at the top of the AMS instrument using the proton-to-helium flux ratio. This method allows scientists to detect tiny variations in the interaction probabilities of these nuclei with different materials, revealing inhomogeneities. Detailed images show detector elements such as screws, electronic boards, and mechanical interfaces.
STS-134 Astronauts Visit CERN
A year after the STS-134 mission, the crew of Shuttle Endeavour, which delivered AMS-02 to the ISS, visited CERN and the AMS Payload Operations Control Center (POCC). The visiting astronauts included Captain Mark E. Kelly (USN), Commander (NASA); Colonel Gregory H. Johnson (USAF, Ret.), Pilot (NASA); Colonel Roberto Vittori, Mission Specialist (ESA); Colonel E.M. Mike Fincke (USAF), Mission Specialist (NASA); Dr. Andrew J. Feustel, Mission Specialist (NASA); and Dr. Gregory Errol Chamitoff, Mission Specialist (NASA). They arrived in Geneva on July 22nd, accompanied by their families and Mrs. Gabrielle Gifford, highlighting the collaborative spirit and ongoing partnership between the space missions and scientific research institutions.
The Asia Payload Operations Control Center (POCC)
July 3rd marked a significant milestone for the AMS project with the inauguration of the AMS Asia Payload Operations Control Center at the CSIST premises in Taiwan. The event was attended by Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou and other government officials. The opening ceremony featured Professor Sadakazu Haino, formerly of INFN-Perugia and now a professor at the National Central University Center for Space Research in Taiwan. Professor Haino provided an overview of the current status of cosmic ray research, signifying the importance of international collaboration in advancing our understanding of cosmic phenomena.