Cosmic Ray Detector SORAMAME

About Cosmic Ray Detector SORAMAME

We are developing an app for observing cosmic rays. These cosmic rays, which constantly bombard us from space and even penetrate our bodies, are invisible to the naked eye. Our app allows you to observe these cosmic rays using your smartphone's camera sensor. You can view real-time images of potential cosmic ray detections and see a graph of detection frequency, updated in real time.


When a potential cosmic ray is detected, the data will be sent to a central server. If an internet connection is not available, the detected data will be stored locally and automatically uploaded once the connection is restored. Data received at the central server is displayed in real-time on our website. You can also view images detected by other users in real-time on the website.

Since constant observation is necessary, we recommend using old smartphones and tablets that are no longer needed. The data collected through the app is used to explore unsolved problems in astrophysics, and we regularly present our latest research findings at conferences both domestically and internationally.
--
With over 6 billion smartphones in use worldwide, and more than 8 billion internet-connected devices when you include tablets and laptops, our world is more connected than ever. However, with new versions released almost every year, many of these devices are replaced in just a few short years. But what happens to them once they become obsolete?
These devices, though small, are powerful computers packed with valuable components. One of the most important parts is the camera sensor, found in nearly every device. This tiny, silicon-based CMOS camera sensor is at the heart of our innovative project, the 'Soramame' cosmic ray observation app.

By repurposing these used smartphones and tablets, we can create a global network of detectors, helping to push the boundaries of astrophysics. Join us in this exciting project, and turn your old device into a tool for cutting-edge research!

———— Observation Method

After installing the app, simply cover the rear camera to block light and start the app to begin observation.

Light Blocking
If an error message appears due to insufficient light blocking, please cover the rear camera with black tape or place the device in a dark location to prevent light from entering.

Charging Adapter
Please keep the charging adapter connected.

24-Hour Observation
Constant observation allows you to connect with other users around the world. It is recommended to use an old smartphone or tablet that is not in use.

Location Information
You can observe without allowing location information, but the location information is important for science purpose, please enable location information.

For more information on the app screen, please visit this site:
https://soramame.n.kanagawa-u.ac.jp/en

===================================================

Frequently Asked Questions about the App

What do “Interval,” “Rate,” and “Threshold” mean on the display?
Interval: The time from when the last cosmic ray candidate was detected to when the latest candidate is detected.
Rate: The frequency at which cosmic ray event candidates are detected. The frequency helps distinguish between noise and actual cosmic ray detections since the frequency of cosmic rays observed on the ground is known. The threshold is automatically adjusted to maintain a normal rate.
Threshold: The threshold that distinguishes noise from signals within brightness levels from 0 to 255. For example, if the threshold is set to 30, candidates with brightness levels from 0 to 30 are considered noise and are not counted. Lower thresholds allow more cosmic rays to be detected.

Is there a feature to save detected images?
There is no feature to save images within the app or to the smartphone’s photo app, but detected images can be viewed in real-time on the server. You can check a list of detected images and a frequency graph by tapping the graph icon in the upper right corner of the app screen.