NASA, using Hubble and Chandra, discovers a 'sideways black hole,' defying scientists' expectations

(Representative Image: Canva)

A NASA study has revealed a peculiar black hole. It rotates sideways, defying expectations in its galaxy, NGC 5084.

The sideways black hole, discovered using archived Chandra X-ray data, surprised researchers at NASA’s Ames Research Center. Using innovative analysis techniques, they revisited the galaxy’s long-stored data. The findings revealed unexpected X-ray plumes, reshaping understanding of galactic dynamics.

Uncovering the Galaxy’s Secrets
Astronomers found four plumes of plasma in NGC 5084. Two plumes extend above and below the galaxy’s plane. Another pair forms an "X" within the galactic plane. This rare cross-shaped plume structure added intrigue to the discovery.

Hubble Space Telescope image of galaxy NGC 5084’s core. (Image: Canva)

Researchers also identified a small, dusty disk near the galaxy's centre. Unlike the galaxy’s rotation, this disk spins at a 90-degree angle. This unusual alignment hinted at a toppled black hole.

Advanced Techniques Enable the Discovery
Alejandro Serrano Borlaff, Ames researcher, developed the analysis methods. His team used Selective Amplification of Ultra Noisy Astronomical Signal (SAUNAS). This approach identified faint X-ray emissions missed by older methods.

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To confirm the findings, the team examined archives from NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope. They also used data from the ALMA observatory in Chile. Observations showed NGC 5084 underwent significant changes in its past.

Insights into the Galaxy’s History
Pamela Marcum, an Ames astrophysicist, noted the discovery’s uniqueness. "Detecting double X-ray plumes is highly unusual," she said. Their cross-shaped structure offers new insights into galactic evolution.

Researchers propose two possible events disrupted NGC 5084. It might have collided with another galaxy, creating unusual X-ray patterns. Alternatively, superheated gas may have formed a chimney-like structure.

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Further studies are required to pinpoint the exact cause. The findings, published in The Astrophysical Journal, highlight the importance of archival data. They show how advanced analysis techniques reveal the hidden past of galaxies.