Newborns or survivors? The unexpected matter found in hostile black hole winds

The existence of large numbers of molecules in winds powered by supermassive black holes at the centers of galaxies has puzzled astronomers since they were discovered more than a decade ago. Molecules trace the coldest parts of space, and black holes are the most energetic phenomena in the universe, so finding molecules in black hole winds was like discovering ice in a furnace. A new theory predicts the molecules are born in the winds with unique properties that enable them to adapt to and thrive in the hostile environment. …read more