quasar
/ˈkweɪzɑːr/
Definition
A highly energetic and luminous galactic center powered by gas and dust spiraling into a supermassive black hole.
Etymology
The term is a portmanteau derived from 'quasi-stellar radio source,' a name coined in the 1960s because these objects appeared point-like like stars but emitted strong radio waves. It has since become a standard term in astrophysics for this specific class of active galactic nuclei.
In the news
In this article, quasars are identified as ancient, brilliant objects from the early universe that help astronomers understand the formation of the first galaxies and black holes. Their immense luminosity, caused by frictional heating, allows them to be detected even across vast cosmic distances.
ESA’s Euclid Space Telescope Finds Universe’s Most Ancient Quasars
Read the full article ↗NASA Science (.gov)