Two Supermassive Black Holes Set to Collide in Galaxy Mrk 501
Astronomers have discovered evidence of two supermassive black holes spiraling toward a collision at the center of galaxy Mrk 501. The pair could merge in as little as 100 years.
Astronomers have uncovered compelling evidence of two supermassive black holes spiraling toward a potentially spectacular collision at the center of galaxy Mrk 501.
A previously unseen jet of particles revealed the likely presence of a second black hole, with observations suggesting the pair completes an orbit every 121 days.
Depending on their masses, these cosmic giants could merge in as little as 100 years.
Sources1
Original reporting and primary evidence.
- ScienceDaily — ScienceTwo monster black holes could collide in just 100 years
Claim connections3
Astronomers have uncovered compelling evidence of two supermassive black holes spiraling toward a potentially spectacular collision at the center of galaxy Mrk 501.
confirmedConnected sources1
A previously unseen jet of particles revealed the likely presence of a second black hole, with observations suggesting the pair completes an orbit every 121 days.
confirmedConnected sources1
Depending on their masses, these cosmic giants could merge in as little as 100 years.
confirmed