The object pictured in this dramatic non-APOD view of an ongoing galactic collision is known as Arp 148. "Arp" is the Atlas of Peculiar Galaxies. The object to the left is the smaller of two galaxies which is apparently just completing the process of passing through the center of the larger object, leaving a ring shaped galaxy in its wake. Spectacular!
H/T Bad Astronomy Blog. Clicking the image, will link you to the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope page for this object, and higher resolution views are offered there.
Weren't the pix that Phil posted amazing? Almost beyond belief.
ReplyDeleteHard to believe all this could happen in just 6000 years.
"Hard to believe all this could happen in just 6000 years."
ReplyDeleteLOL!
I've probably repeated how much I'm a sucker for good astronomical photography a few times. Those pictures were just astonishing.
I do love your regular Friday feature. It helps me to remember that there are other things to keep in mind besides the latest obsession in the horse race, or the latest think over which too many display faux outrage.
ReplyDelete^think^thing
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