‘Very messy eaters’: scientists solve the mystery of when black holes ‘burp’

Recent astronomical studies connect compact cosmic objects to the growth stages and feeding habits of massive black holes.

Recent scientific studies reveal new insights into black hole evolution and feeding habits, suggesting that compact objects known as little red dots may represent an early developmental stage. Meanwhile, researchers have also clarified the mechanism behind when black holes expel gas, describing them as very messy eaters. These findings bridge longstanding gaps in understanding how supermassive black holes grow and interact with their surrounding cosmic environments.

• Simulations indicate that compact little red dots captured in space photography could be an intermediate phase in black hole growth.
• Astronomers have uncovered the specific timing and mechanics behind when black holes undergo gas-expelling events.
• The newly published findings help explain the complex feeding behaviors of massive cosmic bodies.

Timeline

1. Sep 16A new simulation suggests that little red dots seen in space photography may represent a developmental stage of black holes.
2. Sep 17Scientists publish findings explaining the mystery of when and how black holes expel gas.

In this story

Covered by 2 outlets

• The Guardian‘Very messy eaters’: scientists solve the mystery of when black holes ‘burp’1w ago · open ↗
• The New York TimesMassive Black Holes May Have Started as Little Red Dots1w ago · open ↗

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