Hubble sheds new light on enigmatic quasar 3C 273 structure
Quasar 3C 273, one of the most energetic objects in the universe, has become the target of unique observations using the Hubble Telescope. These studies have revealed previously invisible details and enhanced scientists' understanding of these cosmic phenomena.
Astronomers have examined the structure of quasar 3C 273 using the Hubble Telescope's coronagraphic spectrograph. This technology, which works similarly to a solar eclipse, blocks the central light source, allowing better observation of the surrounding objects.
We have several spots of varying sizes and a mysterious L-shaped filamentary structure. All of this is located at a distance of about 10,000 light-years from the black hole – explains Bin Ren from the Côte d'Azur Observatory in France.
Scientists observed details that could be small satellite galaxies, being consumed by the quasar's black hole. These structures provide matter to the supermassive black hole, driving its intense radiation.
Quasar 3C 273 – A pioneering discovery
Quasar 3C 273 was the first such object discovered in 1963 by Maarten Schmidt. Polish Radio reports that it is located 2.5 billion light-years from Earth and surpasses the brightness of the brightest elliptical galaxies tenfold.
Quasars, which are exceptionally active galaxies, emit enormous amounts of energy. In the case of 3C 273, this activity's source is the matter consumed by the central supermassive black hole. This process generates intense electromagnetic radiation and radio waves, which are characteristic features of quasars.
Spatial radiation stream and its evolution
New data allowed researchers to analyze the quasar's extragalactic radiation stream, travelling through space at speeds approaching the speed of light. By comparing current images with data collected 22 years earlier, it was determined that the stream is continuously moving away from the black hole.
Hubble Telescope technology and the future of research
According to Polish Radio, the Hubble Telescope's STIS spectrograph allowed for detailed images from areas eight times closer to the black hole than in previous observations. This groundbreaking tool not only enabled the study of quasars but also of planetary system formation and galactic interactions.
Astronomers view the future optimistically, hoping to use the James Webb Space Telescope. Its infrared observational capabilities could further explore the nature of quasar 3C 273 and its surroundings.
The golden age of quasars in the universe's history
Quasars like 3C 273 were most numerous around 3 billion years after the Big Bang, during a period of intense galaxy collisions. Today's research on these objects is key to understanding the universe's evolution.
The current discoveries open up new possibilities for analyzing quasars, their structures, and their interactions with their surroundings, bringing scientists closer to answering questions about their role in cosmic history.
