Particle.news

eROSITA Map Reveals Interstellar Tunnel From Local Hot Bubble Toward Centaurus

eROSITA data expose a structured Local Hot Bubble marked by low pressure alongside a pronounced north–south temperature contrast.

Overview

  • Researchers at the Max Planck Institute present a 3D characterization of the Local Hot Bubble in Astronomy & Astrophysics using all-sky X-ray mapping.
  • The analysis identifies a channel of hot, low-density plasma extending toward the Centaurus constellation, with a possible secondary pathway toward Canis Major.
  • Measurements show a high-latitude north–south temperature dichotomy within the bubble’s plasma.
  • The average thermal pressure is lower than expected, indicating the cavity may be open in some directions.
  • The team plans targeted follow-up observations to test potential connections to nearby star-forming regions and to clarify the tunnel’s origin.