Astronomers using the uGMRT and MeerKAT radio telescopes have studied the galaxy cluster RXCJ0232–4420 and found it hosts a giant radio halo extending over 3.3 million light years.

The cluster, first discovered in 2002, contains two central bright galaxies and shows both diffuse radio emission and a large radio relic structure.

The observations revealed relatively uniform spectral properties, suggesting charged particles are being re-accelerated throughout the cluster rather than in isolated regions.

A strong correlation between radio and X-ray emissions indicates a close link between hot gas and high-energy particles inside the cluster, Phys.org has reported.

Overall, the cluster appears to be in an intermediate evolutionary state, combining a cool core with signs of mild internal disturbance.