The James Webb Space Telescope has shown that the Milky Way’s black hole is constantly blazing with light, releasing long flares as well as short flashes every day.

Astronomer Yusef-Zadeh explained that flares are expected in all supermassive black holes, but Sagittarius A is unique. Unlike others, it is constantly active and never settles into a steady state. Observations made throughout 2023 and 2024 revealed changes every time, with each viewing showing something new.

The supermassive black hole in the heart of the Milky Way Galaxy, Sagittarius A*, constantly emits flares like fireworks.

The supermassive black hole at the center of the Milky Way appears to be having a party—and it is weird, wild and wonderful.

Artist's concept of light flares along Sag A*'s accretion disk. (Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, Ralf Crawford (STScI))

Scientists observed constant flares from the Milky Way's black hole, revealing unpredictable and intense activity.

Astrophysicists used the JWST to observe central supermassive black hole for 48 hours total across one year. They found the accretion disk is constantly emitting flares without periods of rest. Shorter,

Farhad Yusef-Zadeh/Northwestern University The supermassive black hole at the heart of the Milky Way is putting on a relentless display of flickers and flares, according to new observations from NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).