What's Happening?
Scientists have observed a magnetic field flip around M87*, the first black hole ever photographed. This discovery, based on data from the Event Horizon Telescope, reveals a dynamic and unstable region near the black hole's event horizon. The magnetic field, initially swirling clockwise in 2017, shifted to an anti-clockwise direction by 2018 and stabilized in 2021. This marks the first time such a reversal has been detected around a black hole.
Why It's Important?
The magnetic field flip around M87* provides new insights into the behavior of magnetized plasma near black holes. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for comprehending how black holes interact with their surroundings, including the formation of relativistic jets that influence galaxy evolution. This discovery challenges existing theoretical models and highlights the need for further research into the complex processes occurring near black holes.
What's Next?
The Event Horizon Telescope team plans to conduct a new observation campaign in 2026 to capture real-time changes in M87*'s magnetic field and plasma activity. This series of rapid-fire images aims to provide a more detailed understanding of the dynamic processes near black holes, potentially leading to new discoveries in black hole physics and their role in the universe.
