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Black Hole Burps Star's Remains for 4 Years
5 Feb
Summary
- Supermassive black hole has been emitting energy from a shredded star for four years.
- The black hole's radio wave jet is among the most energetic phenomena ever detected.
- Energy outflow is predicted to increase exponentially, peaking next year.
Astronomers have discovered a supermassive black hole exhibiting 'cosmic indigestion' by burping out the remains of a shredded star for four years. This ongoing event, officially designated AT2018hyz, began in 2018 when a star was destroyed by the black hole's gravity in a galaxy 665 million light-years away. Initially, there was radio silence, but nearly three years later, the black hole began emitting significant energy.
The radio wave jet emanating from this black hole is a contender for one of the brightest and most energetic phenomena ever detected. The current energy outflow is estimated to be up to 100 trillion times that of the fictional Death Star. This emission has continued to rise sharply, now being 50 times brighter than when first detected.
Experts predict the stream of radio waves will keep increasing exponentially, reaching a peak in 2026. This prolonged and escalating energy release is unprecedented, as similar outflows typically develop quickly and then diminish. The findings suggest a unique and powerful interaction between the black hole and the stellar debris.
