Massachusetts University’s scientists have found a mysterious X-ray stream G0.17-0.41, which is formed as a result of an unknown interstellar phenomenon in the center of the Galaxy that affects the evolution of the Milky Way. This is reported in the article published in the MONTHLY NOTICES OF THE ROYAL ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY. Briefly about scientific work is told in a press release on phys.org.
Astronomers analyzed the data obtained using the Channdra X-ray telescope. They found a couple of plum-like structures emitting X-rays, which are located in the region next to the supermassive black hole SGR A *. Not far from the southern plum, scientists also revealed X-ray thread G0.17-0.41, which indicates the process of restarting (reinforcement) of the magnetic field lines until now.
Restarting magnetic lines occurs when two magnetic fields are converted, which are rebuilt and thereby release a large amount of energy. The same process underlies solar flares. The results of the observation show that the reconnection occurs in the interstellar space on the external borders of the loops.
As the authors of the article write, the results of the study will help to study the heating process of interstellar hot plasma, accelerate the cosmic rays and turbulence, which is important to meaning to understand the evolution of the galaxy.