Teaching tools > Black holes > Overview: Centaurus A history

Description:

Tales of … Key events in the history of Centaurus A chronicles astronomers' observations of the galaxy Centaurus A. It highlights changes in its classification from a nebula to an elliptical galaxy as well as the discovery that its core contains a massive black hole. Students can easily identify how emerging technology has changed our view of this galaxy. This selection originally appeared as background information for a press release on Centaurus A.

Format(s) available: Printer-friendly web page

Grades: 9-12, but the material can be adapted for use in other grades at the teacher's discretion

Teachers can use Tales of … Key events in the history of Centaurus A as:

• A content reading selection. Teachers should discuss the meaning of unfamiliar vocabulary prior to having students read this selection.

• An engagement activity. Have students read the selection. Ask them what evidence exists for the existence of a black hole in Centaurus A.

• An inquiry tool. Propose a question, such as "How do we know black holes exist if we've never seen one?" Have students read the selection and write down as many questions as they can about the information in the text.

• A source of information. Students can identify the emerging technology has changed our view of this galaxy. After reading the selection, have students list the changes in technology that led astronomers to conclude that a black hole is in the center of Centaurus A.

Related materials

Press release: "Hubble Provides Multiple Views of How to Feed a Black Hole"
http://hubblesite.org/newscenter/archive/releases/1998/14

Teaching tools > Black holes > Overview: Centaurus A history