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Where is Gaia-BH3 located in relation to Earth?
Gaia-BH3, the most massive stellar black hole in the Milky Way, is situated approximately 2,000 light years away from Earth. This significant distance allows astronomers to observe and study this celestial object with precision, offering valuable insights into the nature of black holes.
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Why is the discovery of Gaia-BH3 significant for astronomers and the study of black holes?
The discovery of Gaia-BH3 holds immense significance for astronomers and the study of black holes due to its status as the most massive stellar black hole in the Milky Way. This finding provides a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the characteristics and behavior of black holes, contributing to our understanding of these enigmatic cosmic entities.
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How do stellar black holes like Gaia-BH3 form?
Stellar black holes, such as Gaia-BH3, are formed through the gravitational collapse of massive stars at the end of their life cycles. These collapsed stars condense into incredibly dense objects with immense gravitational pull, giving rise to black holes that exhibit unique properties in the cosmos.
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What role did the Gaia mission play in identifying Gaia-BH3?
The Gaia mission, conducted by the European Space Agency, played a crucial role in identifying Gaia-BH3, the most massive stellar black hole in the Milky Way. By monitoring the movements of nearby stars with precision, the Gaia spacecraft enabled astronomers to infer the presence of this massive black hole in our galaxy.
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How does the mass of Gaia-BH3 compare to that of the Sun?
Gaia-BH3, the most massive stellar black hole discovered in the Milky Way, has a mass approximately 33 times that of the Sun. This substantial mass difference highlights the immense gravitational influence and density of Gaia-BH3, distinguishing it as a significant cosmic entity within our galaxy.