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.

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.