Serbian astronomers study X-shaped radio galaxy 3C 315

Astronomers in Serbia have studied an unusual X-shaped radio galaxy named 3C 315. Their findings were published on March 10 on a preprint server. This research uses data from existing astronomical catalogs to understand the galaxy's properties and structure. Radio galaxies like 3C 315 emit strong radio waves from their centers, where massive black holes consume gas and dust. This process creates high-energy jets that release charged particles. Some galaxies, including 3C 315, have unique X-shaped patterns that may result from changes in their central activity over time. 3C 315 is a distinctive type called a double radio source associated with a galactic nucleus. It features two sets of radio lobes that are tilted at angles to one another. The galaxy is elongated in a northwest-southeast direction and is found alongside an elliptical galaxy. The research team led by Vesna Borka Jovanović from the University of Belgrade analyzed radio emissions at specific frequencies. They discovered that the spectral index, which indicates the strength of radio waves, varies in different areas of 3C 315. The study noted that the spectral index is generally high throughout the galaxy, suggesting that non-thermal emission is the primary source of radiation. The galaxy also has a bright radio core but only weak hotspots outside this central area. The researchers believe that the environment around 3C 315, being located within a galaxy cluster, likely influences its evolution. This study adds important knowledge about the unique characteristics of X-shaped radio galaxies.