Queen's University astronomers observe a massive black hole tearing a star apart, linking tidal disruption events and quasi-periodic eruptions.

Astronomers led by Queen's University Belfast have observed a massive black hole tearing apart a star and using the debris to collide with another star or smaller black hole. This finding links two previously mysterious phenomena: tidal disruption events and quasi-periodic eruptions, which produce bright X-ray bursts. Using NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory and other telescopes, the team has made significant strides in understanding these cosmic events.

October 09, 2024
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