Quasar
From Memory Alpha, the free Star Trek reference.
A Quasar is a specific type of Active Galactic Nucleus. It is formed by matter falling into a supermassive black hole. The resulting energy is released as X-rays in all directions. However, the X-ray release is most intense directly above or below the galactic plane. Observed from this view, the resulting bright object is known as a Quasar.
- During the original five-year mission of the USS Enterprise (NCC-1701), Captain James T. Kirk was under standing orders to investigate all quasars, and quasar-like phenomena. In 2267, the Enterprise encountered Murasaki 312, a quasar-like electromagnetic phenomenon. (TOS: "The Galileo Seven")
- In 2367 Worf informed Data about the long range sensoring on the Murasaki 312 a quasar-like phenomenon. (TNG: "Data's Day")
- In 2370 Captain Jean-Luc Picard received a priority one message from Admiral Blackwell inquires to the current status – conducting surveys of the Mekoria Quasar. (TNG: "The Pegasus")
- In 2376 Tuvok describes the Kelemane's planet as having a high rate of rotation "like a quasar". (VOY: "Blink of an Eye") Also Icheb informed Seven of Nine that when he was on the Borg cube: "never thought about what was outside, such as pulsars, quasars, and nebulas...". (VOY: "Child's Play")
