Black hole–shredded megastars power a new class of cosmic explosions

Astronomers have identified a new class of cosmic explosions known as extreme nuclear transients, which occur when black holes shred massive stars. These extraordinary events shine for extended periods, surpassing the duration of typical supernovas. Their brightness is also exceptional, ranging from 30 to 1,000 times that of regular supernovas, capturing the attention of the scientific community and expanding our understanding of cosmic phenomena. The discovery of these extreme nuclear transients offers fresh insights into the dynamic processes that occur when colossal stars meet their demise in the presence of supermassive black holes. Unlike traditional supernovas, which are caused by the explosive death of stars, these transients are driven by the intense gravitational forces exerted by black holes. This interaction results in an unparalleled release of energy, shedding light on the complex interplay between black holes and massive stars. Researchers are now focused on studying these phenomena to uncover the mechanisms behind their prolonged luminosity and extraordinary brightness. By analyzing data from space telescopes and observatories, scientists aim to refine existing models of stellar evolution and black hole behavior. The findings promise to enhance our comprehension of the universe's most powerful forces, opening new avenues for exploration and discovery in astrophysics.

— Authored by Next24 Live