Supermassive black hole, artwork C016 / 9724

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Supermassive black hole, artwork C016 / 9724

Supermassive black hole. Artwork of an accretion disc of infalling material (orange) and a high-energy particle jet (blue) associated with a supermassive black hole at the centre of a galaxy. Black holes are formed when matter collapses to densities where gravity prevents light escaping. Supermassive ones can contain the mass of billions of stars. X-rays from the base of the jet illuminates the accretion disc, allowing studies such as those carried out by NASAs NuSTAR mission (Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array). This allows calculations of the rate of rotation within the accretion disc, and the rate of spin of the black hole. Image published in 2013

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 9245279

© NASA/JPL-CALTECH/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Accreting Accretion Disc Astrophysical Astrophysics Black Hole Energetic Falling Galactic Centre Gravitational Gravity High Energy Radiating Singularity Stellar Evolution Supermassive Black Hole Universe High Density

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> Science > Space Exploration > Galaxies

> Science > Space Exploration > Telescopes Radio

EDITORS COMMENTS
This artwork, titled "Supermassive black hole, artwork C016 / 9724" takes us on a mesmerizing journey into the depths of space. At its center lies a supermassive black hole, an enigmatic cosmic entity formed from matter collapsing to densities where even light cannot escape its gravitational pull. This colossal black hole holds within it the mass equivalent to billions of stars. The image showcases an accretion disc surrounding the black hole, composed of infalling material emitting a vibrant orange glow. From this swirling disc emerges a high-energy particle jet that extends outward in brilliant shades of blue. The base of this jet is illuminated by X-rays, allowing for detailed studies conducted by NASA's NuSTAR mission. Through these observations and calculations, scientists can determine crucial information about the rotation rate within the accretion disc as well as the spin rate of the supermassive black hole itself. Such insights shed light on stellar evolution and provide valuable knowledge about galactic centers and their intricate workings. Published in 2013 by NASA/JPL-CALTECH/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY, this awe-inspiring illustration captures both the beauty and mystery found within our vast universe. It serves as a reminder that there are still countless wonders waiting to be discovered beyond our earthly realm – mysteries that continue to fascinate astronomers and astrophysicists alike.

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