Black holes are the universe at its most extreme: matter and energy crunched so small they literally exit the known universe. Scientists are beginning to suspect that these monsters have a powerful impact on galaxies, solar systems and space-time itself. Researchers are finally getting a grip on these black holes with a new generation of high-tech laser systems and advanced telescopes in space.

Black holes are the universe at its most extreme: matter and energy crunched so small they literally exit the known universe. Scientists are beginning to suspect that these monsters have a powerful impact on galaxies, solar systems and space-time itself. Researchers are finally getting a grip on these black holes with a new generation of high-tech laser systems and advanced telescopes in space.