New Simulations Reveal Formation of Intermediate-Mass Black Holes in Star Clusters

Researchers use novel star-by-star simulations to uncover potential mechanisms for creating elusive black holes in dense molecular clouds.

First-ever simulations of individual stars in globular clusters show how dense environments can lead to massive star formation.
Intermediate-mass black holes, with masses between 100 and 10,000 suns, have been difficult to detect and understand until now.
The study reveals that runaway collisions in star clusters can form stars massive enough to evolve into intermediate-mass black holes.
Previous theories suggested stellar winds would strip these massive stars of their mass, preventing black hole formation.
The research aims to eventually simulate entire galaxies, offering deeper insights into black hole formation in various cosmic settings.