There are scenes that we only imagine in the films de science-fiction. However, they actually occur in space depths. This is the case with the recent observation of Hubble telescopewho captured a black hole in the process of devour a star. A spectacle that is both fascinating and terrifying, described as unprecedented For NASA.
This spectacular phenomenon, recorded at 450 million light yearshighlights a type of black hole extremely rare. It is an object to the intermediate massa little observed category, located between stellar black holes and supermassifs. A missing link which actively revives research on the evolution of these cosmological entities.
HLX-1: A missing link discovered in the heart of the Hercules Constellation
This black hole, baptized Hlx-1is located in the galaxy NGC 6099nestled in the Constellation of Hercules. What particularly intrigues researchers is its intermediate mass. It is neither small enough to come from a dead star, nor massive enough to occupy the center of a galaxy.
Detected for the first time in 2009HLX-1 has been the subject of many observations. In 2012 et 2023he issued X -ray brightness peaksup to 100 times more intense than the first detections. Thus, these eruptions are proof of intense activity: the black hole is currently in the process ofswallow a star.
A shredded star and a cosmic feast confirmed by two telescopes
The star, attracted too close, was deformed by tidal effectbefore being absorbed. This spectacular phenomenon results from the intense gravitation of the black hole which stretches the stellar matter as a spaghetti.
Around Hlx-1the instruments revealed a very dense stars clusters. Some are so close to each other that they are only distant from A few light months. Therefore, this configuration suggests that the black hole could still feed for a long time.
In addition, two tools played a key role: the Hubble telescopefor optical and UV observations, and the observatory Chandraspecializing in X -rays. Thanks to their complementarity, they offered a complete analysis of the stage and the galactic context.
A scientific turning point to better understand the training of galaxies
The discovery of Hlx-1 is much more than an astronomical anecdote. Indeed, it constitutes a direct proof of the existence of black intermediate mass holes, long suspected but rarely observed.
These objects could explain the formation progressive Supermassive black holes. This is why, according to NASA, HLX-1 represents a crucial element to fill the gaps of our galactic growth model.
In addition, this study also offers a unique opportunity: understand how these black holes migrate, merge or change galaxy. Hlx-1for example, would have been originally in the center of a small galaxy today absorbed by NGC 6099.
Finally, each new observation brings us a little closer to the great secrets of the universe. Hlx-1 could well be a missing room Cosmic puzzle. And in the infinite darkness of space, this scientific spark opens a Rare window on the invisible.
