Home · Science · Sep 18 archive
Hubble Reveals Unique Spiral Galaxy NGC 4698
Developing
In Short: A study by the Center for Astrophysics shows actively growing supermassive black holes may contribute to star formation in nearby galaxies.
A new study of nine nearby galaxies, including NGC 1386, has revealed that actively growing supermassive black holes may contribute to star formation rather than preventing it, as previously thought.
According to the CfA, this work helps to clarify a complex feedback cycle that significantly influences galaxy evolution.
The team focused on the galaxy NGC 1386, presenting images of the galaxy in grayscale and a detailed view of its central region.
These findings challenge previous assumptions about the role of black holes in star formation, potentially reshaping our understanding of galaxy development and the interplay between black holes and their host galaxies.
What's still developing
- “This work helps us understand a complex feedback cycle that plays an important role in galaxy evolution.” The team used a new three-dimensional diagnostic technique to distinguish among three sources: star formation, radiation from the active black hole and excitation by shocks.
- The galaxy NGC1386, shown in grayscale on the left and zoomed in to the central region on the right.
Sources
- Cfalink