What is Cherenkov radiation? Where can we observe it?
It is typically visible radiation emitted when a particle exceeds the speed of light IN A MEDIUM, for example water. This is a slower speed than that of light in a vacuum. The radiation is similar to the acoustic shockwave or sonic boom caused by an aircraft exceeding the speed of sound in air.
A “swimming pool” research nuclear reactor glows bright blue when operating. That’s the cherenkov radiation of the particles it is emitting in the water that is shielding it. Such facilities aren’t in general open to the public. Google for photos.
Astronauts report crescent shaped flashes while they have their eyes closed. That’s believed to be cherenkov radiation from cosmic rays traversing their eyeballs. Again, not something easily accessible to the public.
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