A team of scientists from Fudan University in China is proposing a new mission to explore black holes, which would be one of the most ambitious space missions ever undertaken. The plan involves sending a probe close to a black hole to test general relativity and gather data on these mysterious objects.
Black holes are notoriously difficult to study due to their lack of light emission, making it challenging for scientists to detect them directly. However, by studying the effects they have on space around them, researchers can gain insights into these cosmic phenomena.
Astrophysicist Cosimo Bambi is leading this effort, aiming to find a suitable target – a black hole within 20-25 light-years of Earth – and develop technology to support such a mission. According to Bambi, identifying a close-by black hole would be the first hurdle in overcoming long travel times.
Bambi has proposed that two or more probes orbiting around a black hole would be the best option. The probes would communicate with each other through electromagnetic signals, enabling them to gather precise data and make observations about the black hole’s structure.
The mission would require significant planning and technological advancements, including developing a craft capable of traveling at speeds up to 30% of light speed and powered by Earth-based lasers and solar energy.
Bambi believes that exploring black holes using this interstellar mission could provide valuable insights into general relativity and potentially lead to new discoveries. The proposal has been published in the journal iScience, offering an exciting glimpse into humanity’s future space exploration endeavors.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/an-astrophysicist-proposes-we-send-a-spacecraft-to-visit-a-black-hole