A groundbreaking black hole merger has been detected, challenging current models of the universe. The merger, designated GW231123, involved two massive black holes with masses 100 and 140 times that of the sun, respectively. When they collided, a new black hole was formed with a mass of 225 times that of our sun.
The detection, made by the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) and its partners, marks the largest black hole merger ever observed. The event pushes the limits of current theoretical models and highlights the need for refinement in analysis and interpretation methods.
This massive merger has sparked excitement among scientists, as it presents a unique opportunity to study the formation and behavior of supermassive black holes. Researchers are eager to unravel the intricate signal pattern and its implications, which could potentially reveal new insights into quantum gravity.
The discovery was announced at the 24th International Conference on General Relativity and Gravitation (GR24) in Glasgow, Scotland. It marks another milestone in LIGO’s history, following previous record-breaking detections of gravitational waves.
LIGO’s latest achievement demonstrates its capabilities as a tool for advancing our understanding of the universe. By continuing to explore the mysteries of black hole mergers, scientists can gain valuable insights into the fundamental laws of physics and the behavior of celestial objects.
Source: https://www.space.com/astronomy/black-holes/gravitational-waves-reveal-most-massive-black-hole-merger-ever-detected-one-forbidden-by-current-models