Scientists discover water molecules near the supermassive black hole at the center of the Milky Way

Astronomers have detected the presence of water in extreme conditions near the supermassive black hole Sagittarius A* at the center of our galaxy. The discovery revealed that simple molecules are capable of forming and persisting even in zones with intense radiation.

The detection of water vapor in the immediate vicinity of the galactic core came as a surprise to researchers. Previously, it was believed that the harsh radiation and gravitational forces in the surroundings of a black hole would rapidly destroy such chemical compounds.

The water molecules were identified within a dense gas and dust disk surrounding the central object of the Milky Way. Scientists hypothesize that the molecules form in the inner, shielded regions of the cloud, where the density of matter allows them to withstand the destructive effects of ultraviolet and X-ray radiation.

The data obtained will help astrophysicists revise existing models of chemical evolution of matter in extreme regions of space and better understand the processes occurring in the centers of galaxies.