AI Image
An invisible jet of radioactive goo is heading for Earth - should we be worried?
Metro.co.uk • • science
Key Points:
- Scientists have likely discovered a new type of cosmic object called a microblazar, a smaller-scale version of blazars which are powerful jets emitted by black holes at the centers of galaxies.
- The microblazar, associated with the stellar black hole IRAS 18293−0941 about 12,000 light-years from Earth, emits plasma jets traveling at 75% the speed of light, one of which is pointed toward Earth.
- Despite the radiation emitted by the microblazar, astronomer Josep Martí assures there is no danger to Earth due to the vast distance, though direct exposure would cause significant radiation effects.
- The discovery was made using multiple telescopes and archival data, overcoming the challenge of dust obscuring the object, and is considered a rare and important find for studying extreme astrophysical processes.
- Experts emphasize microblazars’ value in understanding high-speed particle movement and cosmic rays, highlighting their rarity and power within our galaxy.
