University of Pennsylvania
Department of Physics and Astronomy
High Energy Physics Seminar

Abstract

High-energy gamma-ray astronomy probes non-thermal, energetic acceleration processes in the Universe. The list of known gamma-ray sources includes active galaxies, supernova remnants, and gamma-ray bursts (GRB). Gamma rays are also produced when high-energy cosmic rays interact with matter in the Galaxy. Other potential sources include more exotic objects such as evaporating primordial black holes, topological defects, and dark matter particle annihilation and decay. Milagro is the first gamma ray detector capable of continuously monitoring the entire overhead sky at energies below 1 TeV. It is a 60m x 80m x 8m water-Cherenkov detector that is operated in the Jemez Mountains near Los Alamos, New Mexico. Results from the first year of Milagro operation, plus results from our prototype detector Milagrito will be presented.