Credit: X-ray: NASA/CXC/SAO/V. Olivaresi et al.; Optical/IR: NASA/ESA/STScI; H-alpha: ESO/VLT/MUSE; Image Processing: NASA/CXC/SAO/N. Wolk

Astronomers have taken a crucial step in showing that the most massive black holes in the universe can create their own meals. Using data from Chandra (blue) and optical light data (red and orange), this study, based on observations of seven galaxy clusters in total, provides new evidence that outbursts from black holes can cool down gas to feed themselves. Massive galaxies at the centers of the clusters contain huge black holes that power outbursts in the form of jets, driven by the black holes feasting on gas.

Provider: Chandra X-ray Observatory

Image Source: http://chandra.harvard.edu/photo/2025/filaments/

Curator: Chandra X-ray Observatory, Cambridge, MA, USA

Image Use Policy: http://chandra.harvard.edu/photo/image_use.html