The spectral lines emitted by M88 do not look like those of a normal galaxy. Some astronomers believe they come from an active nucleus. The most powerful active nuclei are quasars, which can produce light far stronger than that emitted by their host galaxies. The active nucleus in this galaxy, on the other hand, shines barely brightly enough to be detected at any wavelength. Further study is necessary to determine if M88 has a black hole at its center. If so, astronomers will want to know why the active nucleus at the galaxyΓÇÖs center is so dim. Is it simply not very powerful? Or is it that the nucleus hasnΓÇÖt got much fuel, and so cannot shine brightly?
