Deciphering the Electron Spectral Hardening in AMS-02
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: We analyze the electron cosmic-ray spectrum from AMS-02, focusing on the spectral hardening around 42 GeV. Our findings confirm that this feature is intrinsic to the primary electron component rather than a byproduct of contamination from primary positron sources. Even under conservative assumptions, its significance remains at about 7σ, strongly indicating a genuine spectral break. Accordingly, we introduce a new, more realistic parametric fit, which we recommend for the next round of AMS-02 analyses. Once the sources of systematic uncertainties are better constrained, this refined approach can either reinforce or refute our conclusions, providing a clearer understanding of the observed electron spectrum. If confirmed, we propose that this hardening most likely arises from interstellar transport or acceleration effects.
Source: Astronomy
Author: Carmelo Evoli
Language: English
Subfield: Nuclear and High Energy Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,207
OpenAlex ID: W4408026625