K. C. Hsieh University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA A. Czechowski Space Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland M. Hilchenbach Max-Planck Institute for Aeronomy, Katlenburg-Lindau, Germany
Since the discovery of the anomalous component of cosmic rays (ACR), more detailed information on the composition and intensity variations over solar cycles have been accumulated and studied. As the two Voyagers approach the solar-wind termination shock, anticipation of a decisive test on the theory of transport and acceleration of ACR heightens. The fact that all existing ACR measurements have been in situ, i.e. by directly detecting the modulated particles along specific trajectories of ACR-measuring spacecraft; that ACR is an important link in our understanding of our plasma environment; and that the opportunity to explore the outer edges of the heliosphere will not be readily available; all suggest that the means to survey the global distribution of ACR should be examined and implemented. Since the use of detecting energetic neutral atoms (ENAs) as a means to study ACR at and beyond the termination shock was first proposed, the idea has gained acceptance and the techniques for detecting ENAs have matured. It is believed that the first signal of energetic neutral H flux of ACR origin has been detected. Where do we go from here? What can we expect to accomplish in the near future?