Second black hole may lurk at Milky Way's heart

In summary, a recent special on super-massive black holes discussed the one in the center of our galaxy and how it was starting to gain strength again, causing stars to be pulled towards it. The question remains of what will happen to this black hole as our supermassive black hole continues to grow stronger.
Astronomy news on Phys.org
  • #2
That is quite interesting indeed, I saw the special on television that explained about the super-massive black hole in the center of every galaxy and it had the moments when the found the one in the center of our galaxy etc. Well anyways, I recall that the special ended by them saying our black hole was starting up again, and that already stars were getting brought down upon it. This certainly DOES explain how it happened so suddenly, but I wonderm what will happen to this black hole as our supermassive black hole continues to gain strength?
 

1. What is the significance of a second black hole at the Milky Way's center?

A second black hole at the Milky Way's center would have significant implications for our understanding of the galaxy and the universe as a whole. It could help explain the formation and evolution of galaxies, and shed light on the mysterious nature of black holes.

2. How was this potential second black hole discovered?

This second black hole was identified through observations of the orbit of a star called S62, which showed unusual deviations that could only be explained by the presence of a massive object, possibly a second black hole, at the Milky Way's center.

3. What are the characteristics of this potential second black hole?

Based on current observations, the second black hole is estimated to have a mass of about 100,000 times that of our sun, making it a "supermassive" black hole. It also appears to have a highly elongated and tilted orbit, which is unusual for a black hole in the Milky Way's center.

4. How does this potential second black hole affect our understanding of the Milky Way?

If confirmed, this second black hole could challenge our current theories about the structure and dynamics of the Milky Way. It could also have implications for the distribution of dark matter in the galaxy and the formation of its spiral arms.

5. What further research is needed to confirm the existence of this second black hole?

More observations and data analysis will be needed to confirm the existence of this second black hole and determine its exact properties. Future studies using advanced telescopes and technologies may also provide more insight into the nature of this potential black hole.

Similar threads

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
1
Views
392
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
2
Views
987
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
3
Replies
86
Views
4K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
916
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
9
Views
1K
Back
Top