Muons are sub-atomic particles that form when cosmic rays strike the air in the upper atmosphere. The average energy of a muon is about a million times greater than the energy of an X-ray photon used in dental exams. The high energy of muons allows them to pass through thick materials that are impenetrable to X-rays.

Scientists are developing ways to use muon detectors to check for craters under the earth or radioactive materials. The earth is being bombarded constantly with muons. As they pass through thick, heavy materials such as steel or rock, their path is slightly deflected. The detector can measure these deflections and form an image of what might be buried or hidden within the rock.

For example, a detector can be set up for trucks to pass beneath it. The detector can then discover radioactive cargo within the truck, alerting investigators to the presence of nuclear contraband. A detector can also be used to measure volcanic activity within a mountain or to find hidden subterranean chambers.

We know that whenever we compare a technological marvel, regardless of how advanced, to an ordinary biological mechanism, the technology seems to be from the stone age. The cell of the simplest bacteria is more wondrous and complex than the most advanced computer. The same is true of vision. The eye, the nerve and the brain work together in wondrous harmony, and to this day it is difficult for us to fully unravel their mysteries.

In Torah sources there are numerous reports of individuals gifted with special Divine vision and insight. Prophets were generally referred to as “seers” and were able to see over vast distances of time and space.

The Zohar writes that tzadikim make use of a special type of light that does not come from the sun. This light is referred to as “the hidden light,” and tzadikim merit this revelation through intense Torah study and devotion to G-d’s will.

In our generation, we are blessed with a unique prophet and visionary, the Lubavitcher Rebbe. Countless times, he predicted the future with uncanny accuracy, in both private and communal matters. The Rebbe informed us with certainty that we are approaching the greatest revelation of all, the true and complete Redemption with Moshiach. At that time, all of us will experience the greatest heights of Divine revelation, and we will witness it with our eyes of flesh.

Prof. Yirmiyahu Branover is chairman of the Center of Magnetohydrodynamic Studies and Training at Ben-Gurion University.