Shaping Galaxies with Supermassive Black Hole Winds

Dr. Mitchell Revalski, Space Telescope Science Institute

Galaxies are a diverse population with a wide range of sizes, shapes, intensity of star formation, and masses of the supermassive black holes at their cores. These seemingly distinct characteristics can show intriguing correlations. A key ingredient in forming those relationships may be supermassive black hole winds, which are energetic flows of gas powered by the light emitted from growing black holes. These winds can sculpt the shapes of galaxies, determine the rate at which stars are able to form, and push heavy elements into the voids between galaxies. Join us for a visual exploration of what recent observations and simulations have taught us about these winds and how they may influence the development of galaxies.

Host: Frank Summers, Space Telescope Science Institute
Recorded live on Tuesday, December 1, 2020
More information: www.stsci.edu/public-lectures