For the first time, scientists working at the Hubble Space Telescope were able to directly observe a quasar accretion disc.

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The equipment setup at the lab not only allows for the plasma to be created, but its properties can also be measured very closely, allowing the scientists to directly observe how matter behaves when its in its plasma state.

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Real black holes' light-swallowing abilities make them notoriously difficult to observe directly, though their gravitational effects on their surroundings can be seen.

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The hype has increased in the last few decades since functional neuro-imaging has enabled scientists to observe directly the activity in the brains of conscious subjects exposed to certain stimuli or engaging in different tasks.

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Local MP Stephen Barclay said it was an example of localism at work but as he was not involved directly in the legal process concerning the applications he could only observe.

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