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Supermassive black hole blasts out a neon 'treble clef' | Space photo of the day for Oct. 16, 2026

Astronomers have identified the source of a bizarre space object resembling a neon pink treble clef, which is actually an unusual cluster of radio waves. Researchers analyzed data from NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory alongside the eROSITA telescope to study the formation.

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Astronomers have identified the source of a bizarre space object resembling a neon pink treble clef, which is actually an unusual cluster of radio waves. Researchers analyzed data from NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory alongside the eROSITA telescope to study the formation. The team observed a large blue gas cloud alongside bright pink radio signals.

According to a new study published in Astronomy and Astrophysics, scientists believe a supermassive black hole produced an outburst that pushed charged particles and magnetic fields away from the center of the galaxy cluster. Following this outburst, an extreme collision between two galaxy clusters likely occurred. This cosmic smash-up appears to have compressed or reenergized the particles, amplifying the radio signal into its musical shape.

While such space images often appear peaceful and colorful, researchers note they actually stem from violent, chaotic events deep in the cosmos.

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Original publication: 16 October 2026 19:30

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