Core of galaxy M87 seen by Hubble Space Telescope

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Core of galaxy M87 seen by Hubble Space Telescope

The core of the elliptical galaxy M87 (NGC 4486) seen from the Wide Field/Planetary Camera onboard the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). HST enabled the discovery of a stellar cusp in the core of M87 seen here as the brightest white spot. In this region the density of stars is 300 times greater than a normal elliptical galaxy. Current models suggest that a black hole of 2.6 billion solar masses lies in the stellar cusp of M87 & pulls all the stars in this region towards the centre. The black hole is powering the jet of plasma which departs from the nucleus & extends outwards for 4000 light years. North is at top right

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Black Hole Cosmology Galactic Galaxy Hubble Image

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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the awe-inspiring core of galaxy M87, as captured by the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). The elliptical galaxy's core is depicted here with remarkable clarity, revealing a stellar cusp that astounded scientists upon its discovery. This region within M87 boasts an extraordinary density of stars, approximately 300 times greater than what is typically observed in other elliptical galaxies. At the heart of this celestial marvel lies a colossal black hole, estimated to be a staggering 2.6 billion times more massive than our Sun. Its immense gravitational pull compels all surrounding stars to gravitate towards its center, creating the mesmerizing white spot visible in this image. The sheer power emanating from this supermassive black hole becomes evident through the jet of plasma it generates. Extending outward for an astonishing distance of 4000 light years from the nucleus, this energetic jet propels matter into space at incredible speeds. As we gaze upon this photograph, we are reminded of both the grandeur and mysteries that lie within our vast universe. It serves as a testament to humanity's insatiable curiosity and unyielding quest for knowledge about distant galaxies like M87. With each new revelation brought forth by instruments such as HST, we inch closer to unraveling some of these cosmic enigmas and expanding our understanding of the cosmos around us.

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