A Telescope Down Under | The Daily Wobble

Now, pardon my eccentricity, but it seems to me that the primary objective of a telescope is to gaze skyward, correct? Of course, skyward in relation to your position on this planet. Undoubtedly, the usual function of a telescope is to observe distant entities like stars and planets. However, hypothetically speaking, a telescope could also be utilized to scrutinize something minuscule that is up close. For instance, consider a neutrino particle?

Neutrino particles are petite entities that dart around in space apparently without a set path. Due to their differing behavior from solid objects, they can pass through substances like apparitions. It’s due to this trait, coupled with their susceptibility to radiation interference, that makes them incredibly challenging to detect. This is where KM3NeT enters the scene.

KM3NeT, also known as the Cubic Kilometre Neutrino Telescope, is an array of sensors currently under construction at the ocean floor. The aim of this project is to explore the Earth’s crust for indications of neutrinos. Considering the sheer size of our planet, placing a monitoring system at the seabed provides an excellent vantage point to capture passing neutrinos without being disturbed by background radiation.

Unfortunately, there is no set timeline for the completion of KM3NeT, but ongoing tests are being conducted concurrently with the construction phase. Hopefully, once the project reaches fruition, the genuine hunt can commence without delay. Or should we say, without delay in swimming.