On December 18, 2024, astronomers announced the discovery of a young binary star system named D9, located near the supermassive black hole Sagittarius A* (Sgr A*) at the center of the Milky Way. This finding is significant as it challenges previous assumptions about star formation in extreme gravitational environments.
Only five binary star systems have been detected in this region, making D9 unique. It orbits at a mere 0.12 light-years from Sgr A*, much closer than Proxima Centauri, the nearest star to the Sun, which is 40 times farther away.
The detection was made possible through long-term observations using two spectrographs at the Very Large Telescope. The D9 system is estimated to be just 2.7 million years old, suggesting it formed in proximity to the black hole, contrary to the belief that such environments hinder star formation.
This discovery implies that the extreme conditions near supermassive black holes may not be as destructive as once thought, allowing for the formation of young stars. Additionally, it raises the possibility of planets existing in the galactic center, as planets often form around young stars.
Overall, the identification of D9 not only enhances our understanding of star formation near black holes but also opens new avenues for exploring the potential for planetary systems in these extreme environments.