Cosmic rays can pose a risk to astronauts, as they can damage DNA and increase the risk of cancer. NASA is studying ways to protect astronauts from cosmic rays, such as using shielding on spacecraft and developing new types of radiation detectors.
Some scientists believe that cosmic rays may have played a role in the origin of life on Earth. Cosmic rays can deliver energy to molecules in the atmosphere, which could have helped to create the building blocks of life.
Scientists believe that cosmic rays could be used to study black holes. When cosmic rays interact with the atmosphere, they produce a shower of particles that can be detected by ground-based telescopes. By studying these particle showers, scientists can learn more about the composition of cosmic rays and the environment around black holes.