Images Dated 4th December 2001

Energy-releasing black hole

Energy-releasing black hole. Computer artwork of the energy-releasing black hole (upper left) in galaxy MCG -6-30-15. The energy around this black hole was measured by astronomers, using ESA's XM Newton X-ray observatory. It was found to be greater than expected. The extra energy is thought to be rotational energy extracted when the black hole's spin is slowed by the twisting of magnetic field lines close to its border (event horizon). The gravity in this region is strong enough to twist the fabric of space-time, resulting in the tightening of the magnetic field lines that slows the spin of the hole. The energy released by the slowed hole heats surrounding gas

© NASA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Formula One World Championship: The podium: Alain Prost Williams second; Jean Marie Balestre President FISA; Nigel Mansell Williams race winner

The podium (L to R): Alain Prost (FRA) Williams second; Jean Marie Balestre President FISA; Nigel Mansell (GBR) Williams race winner; French President Francois Mitterand; Ayrton Senna (BRA) McLaren (obscured).
French Grand Prix, Magny-Cours, 7 July 1991

© Sutton Motorsport Images

Formula One World Championship: Riccardo Patrese Williams celebrates his 200th Grand Prix start with the customary cake

Riccardo Patrese (ITA) Williams celebrates his 200th Grand Prix start with the customary cake. He retired in the race after an accident caused by a loose undertray.
British Grand Prix, Silverstone, England, 15 July 1990

© Sutton Motorsport Images