A massive black hole at the center of the galaxy M87 has unleashed an extraordinary gamma-ray flare, emitting photons hundreds of billions of times more powerful than visible light. This intense burst of radiation is helping scientists understand how particles near black holes achieve such high energies.
The black hole in question is one of the largest and most energetic objects in the universe, producing a jet that is millions of times larger than its event horizon. The recent flare surpassed typical levels detected by radio telescopes in the region surrounding the black hole and lasted around three days.
Gamma rays, which represent the highest energy wavelength in the galaxy’s electromagnetic spectrum, were produced at an energy level of several teraelectronvolts. To put this into perspective, this energy level is akin to that generated by a mosquito in flight, yet it is directed at trillions of times smaller particles.
Researchers, including Weidong Jin from UCLA, analyzed the most energetic segment of the dataset using VERITAS and other ground- and space-based observatories. The study offers the most detailed spectral data gathered from M87 and modeling that enhances our understanding of these processes.
The research team discovered a rare chance to further investigate the origins of high-energy particles within the supermassive black hole’s jet. They analyzed the spectral energy distribution, which reveals how energy from astronomical entities like M87 distributes across different light wavelengths. This analysis plays a critical role in revealing the mechanisms driving the acceleration of high-energy particles.
The study also notes an intriguing fluctuation in the position and angle of the black hole’s event horizon and its jet, suggesting a relationship between the particles and the event horizon across different scales. With this new understanding, scientists can continue to unravel the mysteries of black holes and their role in shaping the universe.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/huge-black-hole-fire-emits-235805787.html