Image (IMAGE)
Caption
A snapshot from one of the new black hole simulations. Here, green magnetic field lines are overlaid on a map of hot plasma. Just outside the black hole’s event horizon, the connection of magnetic field lines pointing in opposite directions makes an X-point where they crisscross. This process of reconnection launches some particles in the plasma into the black hole and others into space, an important step in the generation of black hole flares.
Credit
B. Ripperda et al., Astrophysical Journal Letters 2022
Usage Restrictions
Credit must be given to the creator.
License
CC BY