Astronomers studying the supermassive black hole Sagittarius A* have observed unique and rapid flares of light from its accretion disk, differing from those observed in other black holes. The flares vary in brightness and duration, occurring over minutes to seconds, and can be seen using infrared and X-ray instruments. These flares result from turbulent changes in the disk, causing collisions in magnetic fields that release energetic particles, creating bright bursts of radiation. This activity contributes to a fascinating light display just 26,000 light years from Earth.
Since multiple flares come one after another, it is like a firework happening before it goes quiet. This happens a few times a day.
The brightness of the flares changing from hours, to minutes, to seconds demonstrates the unique nature of the events around Sagittarius A* compared to other supermassive black holes.
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