Investigations of the Transition Region between Galactic and Extragalactic Cosmic Rays with Arrays for Extensive Air-Shower Detection

Abstract

We discuss the results of cosmic-ray energy spectrum and mass composition studies obtained with arrays for extensive air-shower detection. An overview of ground arrays that perform such research and a brief description of methods of the primary particle characteristics recovery from experimental data are presented. A particular emphasis is given to the energy range of 10¹⁶–10¹⁸ eV, where a transition from galactic to extragalactic cosmic rays is expected. The array complex constructed in the Tunka Valley for the studies in this range is specifically considered.