Gamma-ray bursts, first detected accidentally in 1967, have long puzzled astronomers. Recent observations of their afterglows are now challenging established theories. These powerful cosmic explosions release extraordinary amounts of energy in mere seconds. Ground-based observatories detect gamma rays indirectly through atmospheric interactions. These new findings suggest the physics behind these events is more complex.

For more than half a century, gamma-ray bursts have remained one of the most puzzling events observed in space. These bursts are sudden flashes of gamma rays, a very high-energy…

Gamma-ray bursts, first detected accidentally in 1967, have long puzzled astronomers. Recent observations of their afterglows are now challenging established theories. These…