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Global Cosmic Ray Muon Detector Network
Innovative Approach in Space and Terrestrial Weather Monitoring and STEM Outreach
The Problem
Space is immense, yet we depend on a relatively limited number of satellites and ground-based cosmic ray neutron detectors to observe solar activity. This sparse coverage can result in missed or delayed detection of critical solar events. Compounding the challenge, solar phenomena are highly complex and not yet fully understood, making it difficult to accurately forecast the timing, intensity, and potential impacts of solar storms.
On Earth, terrestrial weather encompasses dynamic atmospheric conditions—such as temperature, precipitation, wind, and storms—that directly influence daily life, agriculture, transportation, and disaster preparedness. However, translating these complex forecasts into clear, actionable guidance for the public and decision-makers remains a significant hurdle.
To enhance prediction accuracy, reduce risks, and foster a more resilient future, there is a pressing need for a cost-effective and integrated approach to monitoring both space and terrestrial weather.
Our Solution
Our project is dedicated to establishing a global network of affordable, sustainable cosmic ray detectors designed to monitor space weather and its influence on Earth’s environment and infrastructure. These detectors will provide valuable real-time data on high-energy particles originating from solar and cosmic sources, which can affect satellite operations, aviation safety, power grids, and communication systems.
By fostering international partnerships and developing low-cost, easy-to-deploy technology, we aim to make this scientific capability accessible to a wide range of communities, particularly those in underserved and remote regions. This democratization of space weather monitoring not only enhances global data coverage but also empowers local populations to engage directly in scientific discovery.
Ultimately, this initiative represents a bold step toward a more connected, collaborative, and resilient planet—where every nation plays a role in advancing our understanding of the cosmos.
Its Impact
Through a robust program of educational outreach and citizen science initiatives, the project aims to ignite curiosity and foster active participation among students, educators, and amateur scientists worldwide. By providing hands-on opportunities to engage with real scientific instruments and contribute to meaningful data collection, we will make space and atmospheric science more accessible and relevant to everyday life.
Workshops, training modules, and open-access learning resources will be developed to support schools, universities, and community organizations in integrating cosmic ray and weather monitoring into their curricula and outreach activities. These efforts will not only enhance STEM education but also promote scientific literacy and critical thinking skills across diverse populations.
By involving individuals in the process of scientific discovery, we aim to cultivate a new generation of informed, empowered citizens. These individuals will be better equipped to understand and respond to the dynamic changes in both space and terrestrial weather.
Detector Development
The photo on left is the baseline design of the portable and low-cost cosmic ray muon detector developed by the Nuclear Physics Group at Georgia State University.
gLOWCOST Network
The gLOWCOST Collaboration is led by an interdisciplinary team of faculty at Georgia State University in Atlanta, USA, and includes international partners from countries across East Asia, Europe, Africa, and South America. The team actively seeks to expand global participation in the gLOWCOST initiative, fostering a collaborative network worldwide.
The very first deployment of portable and low-cost cosmic ray muon detector at Frederick Douglas High School, Atlanta, on October 11, 2024.
STEM Outreach
One of the key components of the gLOWCOST project is to use the detector network as a platform for training the next generation of workforce in monitoring extreme space weather events and exploring the dynamic changes in the atmosphere due to climate change. The photos on the right show the very first deployment of the gLOWCOST cosmic ray muon detector at Frederick Douglass High School, which is very close to the campus of Georgia State University. The plan is to install as many of these detectors as possible in the state of Georgia and around the world. Students from various cultural backgrounds can share their learning experiences and make impactful contributions to solving the most challenging issues humanity will face in the future.
We acknowledge the support of this project from the PROJECT RISE at GSU (Georgia State’s Research Innovation and Scholarly Excellence challenge), the US Department of Energy, Office of Science, National Science Foundation, and the partner institutions within the gLOWCOST Collaboration.