NASA | What Are Gamma Rays?

Gamma rays are a type of high-energy electromagnetic radiation, similar to X-rays but even more energetic. They have the shortest wavelength and the highest frequency in the electromagnetic spectrum. Gamma rays are produced by extremely energetic processes, such as nuclear reactions, supernovae, and certain types of radioactive decay. They can also be generated by cosmic phenomena like black holes and neutron stars. Gamma-ray astronomy helps scientists study these energetic events and gain insights into the most extreme conditions in the universe.