Scientists Discover Enormous Galaxy 32 Times Larger Than Earth’s

Researchers have identified a massive radio galaxy, “Inkathazo,” which is 32 times the size of the Milky Way, Live Science reported. This discovery poses challenges in understanding its complex physics.

Inkathazo’s plasma jets extend 3.3 million light-years and are visible due to their radio emissions. While traditionally considered rare, advancements in radio telescopes like South Africa’s MeerKAT have led to the discovery of approximately 11,000 giant radio galaxies in recent years.

The research team is generating high-resolution spectral maps to analyze the plasma jets, discovering unexpected energy boosts in electrons, possibly from interactions with hot gas in the cluster. This suggests new insights into plasma physics in extreme cosmic environments.

The findings indicate that many more giant radio galaxies await discovery, highlighting MeerKAT’s potential for future astronomical research.