Astronomers have made a groundbreaking discovery by locating hundreds of previously hidden supermassive black holes in the universe. These giant voids in space-time emit infrared light, allowing researchers to spot them for the first time. The findings could significantly impact our understanding of galaxy evolution and may reveal billions or even trillions more black holes waiting to be discovered.
The hunt for black holes is notoriously challenging due to their invisible nature and intense gravitational pull. Scientists typically detect black holes by observing the surrounding matter as it accelerates and emits light. However, many black holes remain hidden due to clouds of gas and dust that haven’t yet accelerated to incandescence.
Using archival data from NASA’s Infrared Astronomical Satellite (IRAS) and the Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR), researchers identified hundreds of probable hidden black holes. By analyzing infrared emissions, they were able to distinguish these objects from galaxies in the process of forming stars. The study’s authors believe that around 35% of supermassive black holes are currently invisible, with some estimates suggesting this number could be as high as 50%.
The discovery has significant implications for our understanding of galaxy formation and evolution. Supermassive black holes may play a crucial role in limiting the size of galaxies by drawing them towards a central gravitational center or consuming vast quantities of star-forming dust.
While scientists are still refining their theories, this breakthrough provides a new window into the mysteries of the universe. The study’s authors note that the technique used to locate hidden black holes could also help determine the prevalence of these objects in the cosmos and shed light on the heart of our own Milky Way galaxy.
“This discovery amazes me,” said Peter Boorman, an astrophysicist at Caltech. “The usefulness of IRAS and NuSTAR is remarkable, especially considering IRAS’s age.” The study’s findings have sparked excitement among scientists and researchers, who hope to uncover more secrets about the universe through continued exploration and observation.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/space/black-holes/astronomers-find-hundreds-of-hidden-black-holes-and-there-may-be-billions-or-even-trillions-more