An overview is given on the present status of the understanding of the origin of galactic cosmic rays. Recent measurements of charged cosmic rays and photons are reviewed. Their impact on the contemporary knowledge about the sources and acceleration mechanisms of cosmic rays and their propagation through the Galaxy is discussed. Possible reasons for the knee in the energy spectrum and scenarios...

From the point of view of radiation safety, interstellar space is not empty. Neutral and ionized interstellar gas and cosmic rays consisting of H and He-nucleons constitute radiation hazard aboard relativistic interstellar ships. Relativistic aberration of cosmic rays is evaluated and radiation doses from oncoming relativistic flow of interstellar gas and cosmic rays are estimated. Necessary sh...

We briefly describe the energy loss processes of ultrahigh energy protons, heavier nuclei and gamma rays in interactions with the universal photon fields of the Universe. We then discuss the modification of the accelerated cosmic ray energy spectrum in propagation by the energy loss processes and the charged cosmic ray scattering in the extragalactic magnetic fields. The energy lost by the ultr...

In this paper an attempt is made to investigate the possible temporal correlation between heavy precipitation episodes and cosmic rays’ activity, on various time scales. Cosmic rays measurements are sparse and cover less extended periods than those of precipitation. Precipitation is largely influenced by local climatic and even physiographic conditions, while cosmic rays’ distribution is far mo...

High-energy cosmic rays, impinging on the atmosphere of the Earth initiate cascades of secondary particles, the extensive air showers. The electrons and positrons in the air shower emit electromagnetic radiation. This emission is detected with the LOFAR radio telescope in the frequency range from 30 to 240 MHz. The data are used to determine the properties of the incoming cosmic rays. The radio...

We present the main characteristics of cosmic ray population in the atmosphere and its variability (11-and 22-year solar cycle variations, solar protons originating from powerful solar flares, energetic electron precipitation during geomagnetic disturbances and Forbush decreases of cosmic rays). The experimental data were obtained from the long-term cosmic ray monitoring in the atmosphere from ...