⏰ when
When was the first quasar discovered?
SpaceGalaxies
Quick Answer
The first quasar was identified in 1963. It was 3C 273, one of the brightest and most famous quasars.
The Full Story
Astronomer Maarten Schmidt identified 3C 273 as a quasar in 1963. Quasars are extremely luminous active galactic nuclei powered by supermassive black holes. 3C 273 was important because its unusual spectrum initially puzzled astronomers, but Schmidt realized its large redshift meant it was very distant. The discovery opened a new chapter in the study of energetic galaxies and black holes.
Key Facts
1.Identified in 1963
2.Object: 3C 273
3.Powered by a supermassive black hole
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Suggested video title for this topic:
"The discovery of the universe’s brightest cosmic beacons."