Scientists at National Research Nuclear University MEPhI have developed a methodology for early detection of hurricanes, thunderstorms, and tornadoes based on the analysis of muons — elementary particles born in the atmosphere under the influence of cosmic rays.
Muons are formed at an altitude of 15–20 kilometers and are sensitive to temperature, density, and air humidity. Any changes in these parameters affect the intensity of the particle flux reaching the detectors. During thunderstorms, masses of frozen water accumulate in the clouds, which partially shield muons — this fixed weakening of the flux serves as an indicator of a dangerous phenomenon.
The key tool of the development is the "Hurricane" installation: four precision detectors with an area of 45 m², registering each muon. Based on them, scientists build muonograms — "X-ray images" of the atmosphere, allowing real-time monitoring of the air layer over an area of up to 10 thousand square kilometers.
The methodology makes it possible to assess the water reserves of storm clouds and identify areas where hurricane structures are formed. In the future, a network of such detectors will allow building a three-dimensional picture of the movement of atmospheric fronts.
In addition to weather phenomena, the technology reacts to solar activity: muon fluxes change during coronal mass ejections, which makes the method a promising indicator of magnetic storms that are dangerous for satellites and space missions.
MEPhI experts have already begun comparing muonograms with information obtained from radars and weather stations, striving to bring the project to the stage of a ready-made product for emergency response services.