Home / Science / Webb Telescope Uncovers Black Hole's Dusty Secret
Webb Telescope Uncovers Black Hole's Dusty Secret
18 Jan
Summary
- Webb telescope reveals most infrared emissions came from dust near the black hole.
- Previous theories suggested superheated outflows were the main source.
- New findings on Circinus Galaxy black hole aid future black hole studies.
The James Webb Space Telescope has captured new details about the supermassive black hole in the Circinus Galaxy, challenging previous scientific understanding. Utilizing its advanced infrared capabilities, the telescope provided the sharpest images yet of the black hole's surroundings, revealing the precise origin of its infrared emissions.
Previously, scientists hypothesized that superheated matter flowing out of black holes was the primary source of infrared light. However, data collected in July 2024 and March 2025 indicates that approximately 87% of the infrared emissions stem from hot dust located very close to the black hole, with less than 1% originating from outflows.
These observations suggest that a compact, dusty structure feeding the black hole is the main source of infrared light, rather than material being expelled. The findings from the Circinus Galaxy black hole are expected to be vital for researchers studying the 100 million estimated black holes within the Milky Way, offering a new model for analysis.
