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Astronomers Observe Supermassive Black Hole Activation in Real Time

The previously dormant galaxy SDSS1335+0728, located 300 million light-years away, has dramatically brightened since 2019.

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This artist’s impression shows two stages in the formation of a disc of gas and dust around the massive black hole at the centre of the galaxy SDSS1335+0728. The core of this galaxy lit up in 2019 and keeps brightening today — the first time we observe a massive black hole become active in real time. Credit: ESO/M. Kornmesser.

Overview

  • Scientists used multiple observatories to track the galaxy's increasing luminosity across various wavelengths.
  • The event marks the first time a supermassive black hole's transition to an active state has been observed directly.
  • Researchers propose the brightening is likely due to the black hole consuming surrounding gases, though other explanations are considered.
  • The phenomenon offers a unique opportunity to study the triggers and mechanisms behind black hole activation.
  • Ongoing observations aim to determine if the event is a tidal disruption or a new form of galactic behavior.