Astronomers have observed an exceptionally long burst of gamma radiation – intense, high-energy radiation lasting for hours – suggesting a black hole has destroyed a star from within, causing a prolonged “cosmic fireworks” display.
The observation, reported on October 20, 2025, indicates the star exploded as the black hole consumed it. This rare cosmic event provides valuable insights into the processes by which black holes tear apart stars and release enormous amounts of energy. Understanding these events is crucial as researchers continue to map the universe and explore the extreme physics at play in these interactions.
Gamma radiation is the most powerful form of electromagnetic radiation, making such events particularly visible to sensitive space instruments. The extended duration of this gamma-ray burst is what sets it apart, offering scientists a unique opportunity to study the phenomenon in detail.
Researchers believe the black hole essentially obliterated the star from the inside out. The Volkskrant details how this process created the hours-long burst of energy.
Similar observations have been made previously, including instances where astronomers have witnessed black holes stretching stars into “spaghettisliert” shapes before consuming them. As reported in a 2020 publication, these events demonstrate the dramatic effects of extreme gravitational forces.
This type of long-duration gamma-ray burst helps researchers better understand how black holes shred stars and the processes that unleash immense energy. Further analysis of the event is expected to refine models of black hole behavior and stellar destruction.
