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Scientists at 91��ý Kazakh National University (KazNU) have launched a comprehensive scientific project titled "Investigation of the q-metric using multi-wavelength high-resolution observations," aimed at addressing fundamental questions in modern astrophysics. The primary goal of this research is to test the q-metric, a theoretical model of deformed compact objects, using the latest global observation data. The project utilizes high-precision information from the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) and the GRAVITY instrument of the European Southern Observatory (ESO). This study is designed to test the predictions of General Relativity under strong gravitational fields and to understand potential deformations of space-time around black holes.

The core of the research involves studying the physical processes around supermassive black holes such as Sgr A* at the center of our Galaxy and the extragalactic M87* at a multi-wavelength level. Researchers prioritize investigating the "shadow" of the black hole and the orbital dynamics of matter near its gravitational radius. Detailed analysis of these objects will increase the accuracy of theoretical models and deepen our knowledge of space-time geometry. The project is based on modern methods that combine theoretical modeling with observational data from very high-resolution telescopes that have only recently become available.

Within the framework of the three-year plan (2025–2027), several important scientific results are expected. In the first year, by analyzing EHT data, the first constraints on the q-metric will be established based on the study of the photon ring, the black hole shadow, and the interpretation of bright regions observed around M87 and Sgr A*. In the second year, infrared radiation data obtained with the GRAVITY instrument—specifically, the motion of S-stars and the dynamics of bright flares at the Galactic Center—will be compared with theoretical models. In the third year, predictions will be made for observable phenomena such as light bending and gravitational lensing effects characteristic of the q-metric, which can serve as direct indicators of space-time deformation.

This scientific inquiry is rooted in research under the "Jash Galym" project, which directly contributes to increasing Kazakhstan's scientific and technical potential. The numerical models and methods for analyzing gravitational effects used in the project will strengthen the competitiveness of the domestic astrophysics sector. Furthermore, this work provides a great opportunity to develop international scientific cooperation, as the project is implemented in collaboration with leading centers such as the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy (MPIfR) in Germany. This opens doors for experience exchange with European scientists and secures Kazakhstan's place in global astrophysical research.

Scientifically, the q-metric generalizes the Schwarzschild solution by introducing a quadrupole q-parameter that accounts for deviations from spherical symmetry. If this parameter is zero, the model reduces to the standard Schwarzschild solution; if non-zero, it describes more complex gravitational fields. This is particularly important for studying neutron stars and other compact objects. In previous works, the research group showed how the quadrupole parameter affects the stability of orbits: a positive quadrupole increases the minimum allowed radius, while a negative value has the opposite effect.

Another significant aspect of the project is the consideration of the "naked singularity" model. Some studies suggest that the object at the center of the Galaxy may not only be a Kerr black hole but also a naked singularity described by the q-metric. This hypothesis aligns well with the data on the motion of the star S2 and the shadow of Sgr A* observed by the EHT. Therefore, this project offers an opportunity to review fundamental paradigms in astrophysics by confirming theoretical predictions with concrete empirical data.

During the research, modern computational methods, including GPU-acceleration and backward ray-tracing methods, are widely employed. These methods allow for simulating how light bends and focuses around compact objects, thereby creating synthetic images to be compared with actual observational photos. Such a comprehensive approach creates conditions for imposing the first real constraints on the parameters of the q-metric.

The results of the project will not only advance theoretical physics but also contribute to training a new generation of highly qualified specialists in relativistic astrophysics in Kazakhstan. Research findings are planned to be published in high-impact journals included in the prestigious international databases Web of Science and Scopus. This aims to raise the country's scientific reputation at an international level and contribute to global achievements in space exploration.