Astronomers have ply one of the most precise tests of universal relativity yet , by monitoring how stars are revolve the supermassive black hole at the middle of the Milky Way . And Einstein ’s theory slip away the psychometric test , once again .
The study , published in theAstrophysical Journal , focused on single-valued function in detail the orbit of S2 , S38 , and S55 , the three shortest period principal that orbit Sagittarius A * . The squad made a comparing between the prediction of Newtonian dynamics and general relativity , prove a clear discrepancy between the observations and the Newton possibility of gravity .
The motion of S2 agrees much good with Einstein than Newton . Both the placement of the supermassive black trap and the shape of the whiz ’s orbital cavity are a bit different than expected if we assume that the Newtonian Theory is correct .
“ The Galactic Centre really is the good lab to study the apparent motion of principal in a relativistic environment , " lead author Marzieh Parsa , from the University of Cologne , said in astatement . " I was stunned how well we could hold the method we developed with simulated sensation to the high - precision data for the inmost high - velocity stars near to the supermassive black hole . "
While the results are in agreement with worldwide relativity , it does n’t signify that Einstein ’s theory can not be interview . Other groupshave calculate at these starsto check how Einstein’s theory of relativity retain up in the most onerous testing surroundings . The observations have large enough precariousness to allow for fudge factor to Einstein ’s possibility , but so far nothing has shown a need for it . Occam razor tell us that if we should reckon on a particular possibility , oecumenical theory of relativity is a solid choice . More workplace , however , is necessary to determine whether that ’s the right choice or not .
" During the course of action of our analysis we realized that to determine relativistic outcome for S2 , one decidedly needs to know the full orbit to very high preciseness , " comment Andreas Eckart , team leader at the University of Cologne .
The enquiry also generate new estimates on the mass of Sagittarius A * and its aloofness from us . It has a raft of about 4.7 million times the size of the Sun and is place 27,800 clear - years from our planet .