Star S301 orbits Sagittarius A* at 8% the speed of light — a new test of Einstein

Astronomers have identified star S301 as orbiting the supermassive black hole Sagittarius A* at the centre of the Milky Way at speeds exceeding 8% of the speed of light. The object could become one of the most valuable testing grounds for Einstein's general theory of relativity under extreme gravitational conditions. It is among the most promising observational targets for researchers studying gravity at its limits.

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More on this topic

🔬 Science Star Orbiting Milky Way's Black Hole Tests General Relativity at Extreme Speeds Universe Today · 9d ago 🔬 Science Chandra telescope detects 36-million-degree 'breath' of an ancient black hole Space.com · 1d ago 🔬 Science Wandering Black Hole at Galaxy's Edge Reveals Itself by Devouring a Star Gizmodo · 1d ago