⚫ These cold electrons challenge our understanding of black holes

The first images of a black hole in 2019 marked a turning point in astrophysics. They revealed a ring-like structure around the black hole's shadow at the heart of galaxy M87. Today, researchers are using advanced simulations to unravel the secrets of this extreme region.


Andrew Chael, a researcher at Princeton University, explains that these simulations allow the study of interactions between plasma, magnetic fields, and gravity. These elements interact dynamically, influencing how black holes absorb matter and emit particle jets.

Chael's work, published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, focuses on the temperature of electrons and protons around the black hole. These parameters help explain the brightness and polarization of the observed image.

The polarization of light around a black hole reveals information about the structure of magnetic fields. This data helps us understand how black holes accrete matter and emit jets.

The simulations show that electrons are significantly colder than expected. This discovery challenges current knowledge by contradicting existing electron heating models. It could lead to a revision of our understanding of physical processes near black holes.


The Event Horizon Telescope team continues to analyze data to create a video showing the black hole's evolution. This research could change our understanding of these extreme cosmic objects.