What NASA originally thought was a mere dust cloud may actually be a mysterious object called G2 which has fascinated astronomers. On Sept. 23, 2015, the Chandra X-ray Observatory released information that an object near our Milky Way’s black hole, Sagittarius A* (Sgr A*) may be aiding in the increase of X-ray flares and is known as G2.
G2 has been tracked for the past few years as what astronomers originally thought was a cloud of dust and gas. Then, in 2014, after astronomers noticed the object stretching out as it neared Sgr A*, they also noticed an increase in brightness and amount of flares that were being produced. Since then, top astronomers have been theorizing whether G2 may be a binary star system in which two stars collide after being magnetically drawn to each other. However, because Sgr A* is a black hole, astronomers also theorize that material from G2 may simply be getting sucked into it, and thus producing extreme flares.
A mysterious object called G2 has fascinated astronomers at NASA and some believe this object may be common to black holes. Some theorize that nearby massive stars, or even asteroids which feed black holes may have intensifying winds that are affecting Sgr A* and this may be producing effects. However, these astronomers do note that since the arrival of this massive cloud, there has simply been an increase in flare activity near Sgr A*.
NASA reported that between August and October 2014, data had shown that six bright flares had occurred within the span of three days, which was abnormal for Sgr A*. This also occurred after data had shown G2 may have been at its closest distance to Sgr A*, possibly aiding in the production of these effects.
Although it is wise to take a scientific approach to these types of galactic occurrences, it is also wise to note any possible impact these occurrences might have toward Earth. After all, even if these energy systems produce effects which might not measurably impact the earth, it may in some way, describe energy patterns or influxes which could also produce effects from our very own center star, or even that related to the core of our earth.
Our own sun produces flares which may reach an X-level class. When this happens, solar impact may or may not hit the earth, depending on what side the flare occurs on the sun, and whether it is facing the earth. Recently, however, there has been an increase in X-level class solar flares, although impact toward Earth appears to remain relatively small.
In recent days, however, it can be noted that the Planetary K-index, a device used by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to measure geomagnetic disturbances on Earth has also seen high levels. Although much of this may be related to solar flaring, coronal mass ejection (CME) or other waves of radiation, it is smart to point out that an increase in any nearby celestial event may also just impact the core and magnetic field of our planet, and even humanity as a whole.
A mysterious object called G2 has fascinated NASA astronomers as they reportedly continue to monitor any impacts this object may have on Sgr A* and recent upticks in flaring. Although this entity may simply be a cloud of particles interacting with the turbulence of Sgr A*, it is wise to note this occurrence is helping to produce x-ray flares, which are one of the highest levels of frequency wavelengths.
Opinion By Liz Pimentel
Sources:
NASA: Milky Way’s Black Hole Shows Signs of Increased Chatter
Photo Courtesy of NASA
