The Milky Ways Central Black Hole

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library

The Milky Ways Central Black Hole

Astronomers have tracked, for more than 18 years, the motions of several key stars at the very centre of the Milky Way galaxy, and have found that they follow very tight orbits around something very massive and yet invisible. The object is suspected to be a black hole weighing in at about 4 millions times the mass of the Sun. The closest star passes within just 90 astronomical units (AU) of the black hole, which is too small to be seen on the scale of this image. It is represented by the yellow dot. The inset shows a close-up of the black hole, surrounded by an accretion disc

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 9247269

© MARK GARLICK/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Black Hole Diagram Galaxy Milky Way Orbit Star

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the enigmatic heart of our Milky Way galaxy, revealing a hidden marvel that has fascinated astronomers for over 18 years. The image showcases the central black hole, an invisible behemoth weighing a staggering 4 million times the mass of our Sun. Astronomers have meticulously tracked the movements of key stars encircling this cosmic giant, unveiling their tight orbits around something immensely massive yet unseen. In this awe-inspiring artwork by Mark Garlick from Science Photo Library, we witness the intricate dance between these celestial bodies. The yellow dot represents the elusive black hole itself, too minuscule to be discerned in this vast scale. However, its immense gravitational pull is undeniable as it compels nearby stars to venture within just 90 astronomical units (AU) of its mysterious presence. A closer look at the inset reveals a mesmerizing close-up of this enigma shrouded in darkness. Encircled by an accretion disc—a swirling maelstrom of matter being drawn into its gravitational grip—the black hole becomes even more intriguing and beguiling. This extraordinary photograph not only showcases humanity's relentless pursuit of knowledge about our universe but also serves as a reminder that there are still countless wonders waiting to be unraveled amidst the vastness of space.

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