Energy dependence of cosmic ray transport in magnetic turbulence

Introduction

Understanding the transport of cosmic rays in the universe remains a significant challenge in astrophysics. This project, led by Dr. Francesco Pucci from the National Research Council, Institute for Plasma Science and Technology, aims to explore the properties of cosmic ray transport using innovative numerical methods and high-performance computing. By leveraging the computational power of the MeluXina supercomputer, the project seeks to provide new insights into the diffusion of cosmic rays in magnetic turbulence.

Cosmic rays are high-energy particles from outer space, including protons, electrons, and atomic nuclei, that travel near the speed of light (NASA). Cosmic ray transport describes their journey through space, influenced by galactic and solar magnetic fields, which scatter their paths.

The Challenge of This Research

Cosmic ray transport involves complex interactions within turbulent magnetic fields. Key challenges include:

1. Energy Dependence: Investigating how cosmic ray diffusion coefficients vary with particle energy and turbulence amplitude.
2. Scalability: Running large-scale simulations to explore a wide range of cosmic ray energies, previously unfeasible with conventional methods.
3. Computational Demands: Efficiently using HPC resources to handle the intensive computations required for high-resolution simulations.

The MeluXina Solution

To address these challenges, the project utilizes MeluXina’s powerful computing infrastructure:

Advanced Numerical Methods: Implementing an MPI-parallel test-particle code to model cosmic ray propagation in magnetic turbulence.

High-Performance Computing: Running simulations on thousands of cores to achieve excellent scalability and efficiency.

Detailed Analysis: Assessing diffusion coefficients in both parallel and perpendicular directions relative to the magnetic guide field, and comparing results with existing theoretical models.

The Impact

The expected impact of this research includes:

Enhanced Understanding of Cosmic Rays: Providing detailed insights into the energy dependence of cosmic ray transport, a crucial factor in astrophysical studies.

Improved Models: Developing more accurate models of cosmic ray diffusion in turbulent magnetic fields, benefiting the broader scientific community.

Technological Advancements: Demonstrating the capabilities of HPC in addressing complex astrophysical problems, setting a precedent for future research in the field.

Conclusion

This project represents a significant advancement in the study of cosmic ray transport, utilizing the computational power of the MeluXina supercomputer. By exploring the properties of cosmic rays in magnetic turbulence, Dr. Pucci’s team aims to uncover new details about their diffusion mechanisms, contributing to our understanding of the universe. The outcomes will enhance scientific knowledge and provide a foundation for further research in plasma physics and astrophysics.