Milky Way's Black Hole

The video explains the presence of a supermassive black hole at the center of our galaxy, the Milky Way. It describes how black holes form from collapsing stars and how their immense gravity prevents even light from escaping. Using the Keck telescope, astronomer Andrea Ghez observes stars near the galactic center, revealing their rapid orbits around a massive, unseen object. This evidence supports the existence of a supermassive black hole, Sagittarius A*, located 26,000 light years from Earth. Despite its presence, the black hole remains dormant, with the Milky Way's stars not being drawn towards it unless they cross its path.

What is the significance of the Keck telescope in the study of black holes?

How do astronomers determine the presence of a black hole at the center of our Galaxy?

What does the motion of stars near the center of the Milky Way indicate?

Describe the characteristics of Sagittarius A star.

What does it mean that the Galaxy circles a super massive black hole but is not being pulled towards it?