China’s JUNO Detector Captures Neutrinos with Record-Breaking Precision

Updated: December 01, 2025 02:28

Image Source: Live Science

China’s Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) has delivered world-leading results just 59 days after commissioning. The 20,000-ton liquid scintillator detector achieved unprecedented accuracy in measuring neutrino oscillation parameters, surpassing past experiments. These “ghost particles” are notoriously elusive, and JUNO’s breakthrough hints at new physics beyond the Standard Model.

China has taken a giant leap in particle physics with the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), the world’s largest spherical neutrino detector. Located 700 meters underground in Guangdong province, JUNO has stunned the scientific community by producing record-breaking results within two months of operation.

Neutrinos—tiny particles with almost no mass, often called “ghost particles”—are notoriously difficult to detect. Yet JUNO’s 20,000-ton liquid scintillator sphere, surrounded by thousands of photomultiplier tubes, has already achieved the most precise measurements to date of two key neutrino oscillation parameters: the solar mixing angle (θ12) and the mass-squared difference (Δm²21).

Scientists emphasize that such precision, achieved in just 59 days, surpasses earlier experiments and could open doors to new physics beyond the Standard Model, reshaping our understanding of the universe.

Major Takeaways

Record Precision: JUNO measured neutrino oscillation parameters with unprecedented accuracy in only 59 days.

Scale of Facility: The detector holds 20,000 tons of liquid scintillator in a massive transparent sphere.

Scientific Milestone: Results surpass previous global experiments, hinting at new physics.

Operational Depth: Built 700 meters underground to shield against cosmic radiation.

Global Collaboration: JUNO took over a decade to design and build, involving international scientific teams.

Notable Updates

JUNO detects neutrinos produced by nearby Taishan and Yangjiang nuclear power plants, located 53 km away.

The detector’s early success has sparked excitement for future discoveries in cosmology, astrophysics, and particle physics.

Researchers believe JUNO could help answer fundamental questions about neutrino mass hierarchy and the role of neutrinos in the evolution of the universe.

The project highlights China’s growing leadership in big science infrastructure and global research collaborations.

Conclusion: JUNO’s breakthrough demonstrates how cutting-edge engineering and international collaboration can unravel the mysteries of the universe. By capturing the faint whispers of neutrinos with unmatched precision, China’s new detector is not just measuring particles—it is reshaping the future of physics.

Sources: Gadgets360, China Daily, Global Times.

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