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Chandra telescope observations reveal unprecedented structures in the M87* jet and help scientists understand how black holes influence their galaxies
A new NASA observation has once again placed the M87* black hole at the center of scientific discussions.
The Chandra X-ray Observatory captured the most detailed image ever obtained of the jet emitted by the supermassive black hole located at the center of the Messier 87 galaxy.
According to NASA and Space, the data shows internal structures that previously did not appear with this level of precision.
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The discovery helps astronomers understand how these jets form, evolve, and influence the environment around their galaxies.
The M87* became famous in 2019 when it made history as the first black hole photographed by humanity.
Currently, it is considered one of the most important objects for studying extreme phenomena in the universe.
X-ray investigation reveals unprecedented structure in the jet
The new analysis was conducted with data from NASA’s Chandra telescope, specialized in observing the universe in X-rays.
This type of observation allows viewing extremely energetic regions, which often do not appear clearly in visible light.
As the researchers explain, the jet of M87* had already been observed in other light ranges, such as infrared and visible light.
The X-rays, however, showed a clearer separation between the internal structures of the jet.
What previously seemed like an almost continuous flow is now seen as a much more complex, dynamic system full of variations.
The black hole is about 55 million light-years from Earth and has an estimated mass of 6.5 billion times that of the Sun.
Chandra data shows changes over time
The new records indicate that the jet of the black hole M87* constantly changes shape over time.
The comparison of more than ten years of observations allowed the identification of significant variations in the structure of the phenomenon.
Among the main points observed by astronomers are:
- more defined internal structures in the jet;
- continuous movement of material along the emission;
- clear differences between X-rays, visible light, and infrared;
- changes recorded over long time scales.
Thus, scientists can track the evolution of the jet almost like a sequence of images.
In practice, the M87* functions as a natural laboratory to study the physics of supermassive black holes.
Cosmic jet influences the environment of the galaxy Messier 87
The jet of M87* is not just an impressive visual phenomenon.
Its activity has a real impact on the environment of the galaxy Messier 87.
During the feeding process of the black hole, part of the matter is directed to its poles.
Subsequently, this material is launched in powerful jets that traverse thousands of light-years.
According to researchers, this flow carries energy at speeds close to the speed of light.
Consequently, it can affect gas, dust, and other structures around the galaxy for millions of years.
This type of emission helps explain how supermassive black holes interfere in galactic evolution.
Apparent Movement Attracts Scientists’ Attention
Another important point observed in the jet involves its apparent movement.
At times, parts of the structure seem to move about five times faster than light.
However, the speed of light was not surpassed.
According to physics, this is an optical illusion known as apparent superluminal motion.
This effect occurs when the material travels almost in the direction of Earth at extreme speeds.
The perspective creates the impression of a faster movement than what actually happens.
Study Reinforces the Importance of Chandra for Astronomy
The study was presented in 2026, during the 248th meeting of the American Astronomical Society.
The research was also made available in pre-publication on arXiv.
For scientists, the results reinforce Chandra’s ability to monitor extreme phenomena over long periods.
Even after decades in operation, the observatory remains essential for studying highly energetic regions of the universe.
The new image of M87* shows that supermassive black holes still hide processes that are difficult to understand.
What Does This Observation Reveal About the Universe?
The analysis of the M87* jet indicates that the universe is much more dynamic and complex than it appears.
Each new observation reveals previously invisible details and expands the understanding of black holes, galaxies, and cosmic jets.
Meanwhile, M87* remains one of the greatest references in modern astronomy.
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