A distant galaxy harboring a central black hole has been observed emitting radiation. This remarkable celestial object is none other than the ancient and luminous quasar known as 3C 273, residing within a colossal elliptical galaxy situated in the constellation of Virgo.
In an article on Phys.org, an analogy was made: “Similar to how the brightness of car headlights can make it challenging to perceive the surrounding darkness, the same holds true for astronomical observations of luminous objects.”
With modern technology, the latest generation of telescopes has captured images of objects on distant planets.
Researchers at the ALMA Observatory have made significant strides in developing techniques to study obscured host galaxies. Through their efforts, they have made a groundbreaking discovery—unveiling the layered structure of radio waves spanning tens of thousands of light-years across the galaxy. This finding represents a pivotal milestone, as it is the first of its kind in the field of astrophysics.
By applying similar techniques to other quasars, the scientists hope to gain a deeper understanding of the evolutionary processes of galaxies through their interactions with central nuclei. The lead researcher of the study expressed this aspiration, highlighting the potential insights that can be gained from further investigations.
Adding to the excitement, the James Webb Space Telescope, launched in 2021, has recently assumed its position in space. Anticipation is building as the telescope prepares to capture and transmit color-enhanced images of the cosmos back to researchers in July of this year. This cutting-edge instrument holds great promise for unlocking more mysteries and expanding our knowledge of the universe.
The ongoing advancements in observational techniques and the launch of state-of-the-art telescopes continue to push the boundaries of astronomical research, offering glimpses into the enigmatic nature of distant galaxies and their fascinating phenomena.