The Black Hole at the Center of Our Galaxy

Book Details

• Author: Fulvio Melia

• Brand: Princeton University Press

• Binding: Hardcover

• Number of Pages: 208

• Release Date: 11-05-2003

• ISBN: 9780691095059

• Package Dimensions: 9.6 x 6.5 x 0.8 inches

• Languages: English

About The Book

Could Einstein have ever imagined that his groundbreaking prediction in general relativity—of isolated pockets of spacetime completely shielded from our own—could be directly tested? Almost a century later, Fulvio Melia, one of the world’s leading astrophysicists, presents a wealth of compelling evidence that such an entity exists. This fascinating object, with a mass of about three million suns, is located at the very center of our galaxy—the Milky Way—and it takes the form of a supermassive black hole.

In this superbly illustrated and elegantly written nontechnical account, Melia takes the reader on a thrilling journey to uncover the enigmatic nature of this astronomical giant. He explores the technological advances that have made it possible to peer through cosmic dust and detect the mysterious dark spot in the constellation Sagittarius. With this groundbreaking discovery on the horizon, Melia carefully assembles the evidence that points to this dark entity as a black hole.

Through compelling storytelling, Melia presents this scientific detective story, showing how the black hole at the center of our galaxy is on the verge of revealing its secrets to the world. He describes the imminent breakthrough, where revolutionary images of its event horizon—the point of no return—will soon be captured against the glowing backdrop of nearby radiating gas.

Written for both amateur astronomers and professionals, this book not only explains the science behind black holes but also delves into the palpable excitement within the scientific community as this historic discovery draws nearer. Melia’s engaging style and expert insights make this work a must-read for anyone interested in the mysteries of the universe, the nature of space and time, and the cutting-edge research of black hole physics.