Milky Way’s Supermassive Black Hole Flares Irregularly and Unpredictably, Astronomers Find astronomy space science
, the 4.3-million-solar-mass black hole at the center of our Milky Way Galaxy, is a strong source of radio, X-rays and gamma rays. It also displays flaring emission in the X-ray band atop a steady, quiescent level, as well as in other wavebands, most prominently in the near-infrared. The physical process producing the flares is not fully understood and it is unclear if the flaring rate varies, although some recent works suggest it has reached unprecedented variability in recent years.
Apart from a handful of interruptions and Sun constraints, Swift/XRT has pointed at the Galactic center every 1-3 days since 2006. After 2012, the frequency of flares increased again — the researchers had a difficult time distinguishing a pattern. “I’ve been applying for more observing time regularly. It’s a very special observing program that allows us to conduct a lot of research.”
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Unknown objects at the heart of the Milky Way are beaming radio signals, then mysteriously disappearingRadio waves bursting from the center of the Milky Way, then disappearing, might reveal a new type of star if astronomers could just nail them down.
Read more »
10 Ways to Reboot Your Liver | Eat This Not ThatBetween drinking alcohol and eating processed food, your liver takes a heavy beating. Here's how to show this vital organ some TLC, and let it heal and repair.
Read more »
4 ways plant protein is healthier than animal proteinStudy after study shows that meat as a protein source just isn’t that healthy. It’s far better to get that necessary protein from plants. But why?
Read more »
Wrong Ways to MeditateIn an earthquake: It doesn’t count as meditating if your body isn’t still.
Read more »
There are better ways to organize your open computer windowsAll your open computer windows can become quite messy. Use these tips for Windows, macOS, and Chrome OS to fully customize your layout.
Read more »
5 Natural Ways You Can Improve Your MemoryTry these simple tips to boost your brain.
Read more »