2/8/12

Heart of a Black Hole in Space?

Scientists call this an "Exotic Galaxy with a Black Hole Heart." 




This strange, new found galaxy may help astronomers figure out how black holes and star formation evolved in the early universe, according to a new study.

The spiral galaxy, dubbed Speca, boasts fast-moving jets of particles rushing from its black hole center, a phenomenon more commonly observed in elliptical galaxies. In fact, Speca is just the second spiral known to have such jets.

These jets are spawned by a super massive black hole at the heart of Speca. Researchers hope studying the galaxy will yield insights into black holes, star birth and the interaction between the two. 

"This is probably the most exotic galaxy with a black hole ever seen," said the study's principal investigator Ananda Hota, of the Institute of Astronomy and Astrophysics. She says, "It has the potential to teach us new lessons about how galaxies and clusters of galaxies formed and developed into what we see today." 

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I love the concept of a black hole heart. And I can't wait to see what discoveries will come from this phenomenal find. Does it spark any 'what if' ideas or potential stories for anyone? I'd love to hear what you think.

Kaye

6 comments:

Shelley Munro said...

Well, it looks very pretty in the picture. It always amazes me how new things are being constantly discovered.

Unknown said...

I love learning new things from your blog! This pic is amazing. :)

Christina Ashcroft said...

I love reading about black holes and new galaxies. It's all so fascinating, even though I don't really understand it at all!

Allie Ritch said...

Sounds like a book title: Heart of a Black Hole. Some discoveries just boggle my mind. It's a truly amazing universe out there.

Maria Zannini said...

Black holes scare me. It's hard to imagine something with so much energy and gravity.

But there's also something thrilling about being able to discover such a thing.

Kaye Manro said...

It is such a wild thing to see all the discoveries lately.

Thanks for the comments everyone!