Hidden corridor discovered in Pyramid of Giza using Cosmic-Ray Muon Radiography

• A hidden corridor has been unearthed by scientists inside the Great Pyramid of Giza using a non-invasive technique called cosmic-ray muon radiography.

What is Cosmic-Ray Muon Radiography (CMR)?

• CMR is a technique used to study the density and composition of materials hidden within large and dense objects, such as geological formations, archaeological sites, and industrial facilities.
• The technique involves using muons, a type of cosmic-ray particle, to generate images of the interior of such objects.
• Muon particles are created when cosmic rays, mostly protons and atomic nuclei, collide with atoms in the Earth’s upper atmosphere.
• These muons travel through the atmosphere and penetrate deep into the ground, passing through objects along their path.
• Muons are highly penetrating particles that can penetrate several meters of rock or other materials, making them ideal for imaging the internal structure of objects.

Working principle

• The principle behind CMR is to measure the flux of muons passing through an object and compare it to the expected flux based on the object’s geometry and composition.
• Differences in the measured and expected flux indicate variations in the object’s density or composition, which can be used to create an image of the object’s internal structure.

Applications

• Volcano monitoring: By using muon radiography to create images of the interior of volcanoes, scientists can better understand their structure and potential eruption hazards.
• Archaeology: Muon radiography can be used to explore the interior of pyramids and other ancient structures without damaging them.
• Nuclear reactor monitoring: Muon radiography can be used to detect the presence of nuclear materials within reactors and to monitor their condition over time.