Posted on 04/24/2014 12:34:27 PM PDT by Ernest_at_the_Beach
A pair of supermassive black holes in orbit around one another have been spotted by XMM-Newton. This is the first time such a pair have been seen in an ordinary galaxy. They were discovered because they ripped apart a star when the space observatory happened to be looking in their direction.
Most massive galaxies in the Universe are thought to harbor at least one supermassive black hole at their center. Two supermassive black holes are the smoking gun that the galaxy has merged with another. Thus, finding binary supermassive black holes can tell astronomers about how galaxies evolved into their present-day shapes and sizes.
To date, only a few candidates for close binary supermassive black holes have been found. All are in active galaxies where they are constantly ripping gas clouds apart, in the prelude to crushing them out of existence.
In the process of destruction, the gas is heated so much that it shines at many wavelengths, including X-rays. This gives the galaxy an unusually bright center, and leads to it being called active.
(Excerpt) Read more at redorbit.com ...
fyi
in the proper venue, there is at least 6 months of material in that line.
“They were discovered because they ripped apart a star when the space observatory happened to be looking in their direction.”
Showing off for the camera? :)
FR thread
Guess so,...they are all powerful and must know we are looking.
I have a black hole in my house.
She is a competative swimmer and no food that comes in the door can escape.
I have one that is causes irreprable destruction to my bank account...
Brings back memories.
They're no longer "hidden" if they've been found.
Are you sneaking me back onto your other ping lists, my friend?
Cool.
Sorry, I did a all-lists off-topic ping, in addition, I think I threw in a current and former version of one of the lists. [blush]
Please do not apologize. You are my dear friend and can do no wrong.
I’m happy to get back on your lists.
Would you please add me to the String Theory ping list? Thanks!
Actually, that is an un explained axiom of having a daughter, even a step-daughter.
[’Civ buffs his nails on his shirt]
*Smooch* Thanks.
They were discovered because they ripped apart a star when the space observatory happened to be looking in their direction.I hope Jor-El got his baby off in time.
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