Galaxies IC 2163 and NGC 2207 – NASA/ESA/CSA
MADRID, 31 Oct. (EUROPA PRESS) –
Data combined into infrared, visible and ultraviolet light from the Webb and Hubble space telescopes, show two overlapping spiral galaxies seen from Earth in macabre colors.
“Blood appears to be pouring from the top of a gaunt face.. The long, fearful “gaze” of their fiery, eye-like cores shines in the supreme cosmic darkness. So far these galaxies have only collided: the smaller spiral on the left, cataloged as IC 2163, very slowly ‘crawled’ behind NGC 2207, the spiral galaxy on the right, millions of years ago,” explains THE in a statement.
The approaching galaxies may also have distorted their delicately curved arms, eliminating tidal extensions in various locations. The tiny, widespread spiral arms between IC 2163’s core and its leftmost arm may be an example of this activity. Even more tendrils appear to be suspended between the galaxies’ nuclei. Another extension ‘flows’ from the top of the larger galaxy, forming a thin, semi-transparent arm that practically comes out of the screen.
Both galaxies have high rates of star formation, as countless individual hearts flutter in their arms. Each year, galaxies produce the equivalent of two dozen new Sun-sized stars. Our galaxy, the Milky Way, forms only the equivalent of two to three new Sun-sized stars per year. Both galaxies have also hosted seven known supernovae in recent decades, a high number compared to the average of one every 50 years in the Milky Way. Each supernova may have freed up space in the arms of galaxies, rearranging the gas and dust which then cooled and allowed many new stars to form.
Las “action sequences” Star formation manifests itself in bright blue areas captured by Hubble in ultraviolet light and in pink and white regions detailed primarily by Webb’s mid-infrared data. Larger areas of stars are known as superstar clusters, which are seen in the upper spiral arm that wraps around the larger galaxy and points to the left.
Other bright regions in galaxies are mini starbursts, places where many stars form in rapid succession. Furthermore, the upper and lower “eyelids” of IC 2163, the smaller galaxy on the left, It is full of the latest star formation and shines brightly.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Astronomy Expert on the Recent Findings of Galaxies IC 2163 and NGC 2207
Time.news Editor: Welcome and thank you for joining us today! We have exciting news emerging from our universe — the intriguing observations made by the Webb and Hubble space telescopes regarding two spiral galaxies, IC 2163 and NGC 2207. Can you give us an overview of these findings and their significance?
Astronomy Expert: Thank you for having me! Indeed, the data captured by the Webb and Hubble space telescopes combine infrared, visible, and ultraviolet light, revealing these galaxies in striking, almost eerie colors. It’s fascinating to see how they overlap, with a cosmic dance that has unfolded over millions of years. The visuals take on a surreal quality, almost reminiscent of a haunting face gazing out into the void.
Time.news Editor: That’s quite vivid imagery! The article mentions that “blood appears to be pouring from the top of a gaunt face.” Can you elaborate on what that metaphor means in terms of what scientists actually observe?
Astronomy Expert: Absolutely! That description is a poetic way to convey the appearance of the galaxies. What scientists are observing are the trails of star formation and gas that stretch between the two galaxies. The red hues often signify areas of intense star formation, resembling ‘blood’ spilling out, while the shape and flow mimic organic features. It makes the collision seem almost alive, telling a story of destruction and rebirth in an astoundingly beautiful way.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like these images not only offer aesthetic value but also insight into cosmic phenomena. What does the interaction between IC 2163 and NGC 2207 reveal about galaxy evolution?
Astronomy Expert: This interaction is a prime example of galactic evolution. Just to give you context, IC 2163 appears to have ‘crawled’ behind NGC 2207 millions of years ago. Such collisions play a crucial role in the transformation of galaxies. The gravitational pull can distort their shapes, as we see with the delicate arms of IC 2163 being altered. This cosmic merging fosters conditions for new star formation while simultaneously leading to the eventual blending of these two entities.
Time.news Editor: Intriguing! The article also talks about how tidal extensions have been affected. Could you explain what that means and why it matters?
Astronomy Expert: Tidal extensions refer to areas where the gravitational forces from each galaxy stretch and pull at the stars and gas. The interaction can create beautiful streamers of material and trigger new star births. However, as they approach, some of these extensions can get ‘eliminated’ or distorted, leading to a more chaotic structure. Studying these changes helps astronomers understand the dynamics of galactic interactions and can shed light on our Milky Way’s future since it, too, is on a collision course with the Andromeda Galaxy.
Time.news Editor: That raises a question about our own galactic neighborhood. Given the evidence of interactions like that of IC 2163 and NGC 2207, how should we view the future of our Milky Way?
Astronomy Expert: It’s both an exciting and a daunting prospect! While the collision with Andromeda will not happen for about 4 billion years, it will be a transformative event for both galaxies. It’s essential to recognize that such encounters ultimately lead to the creation of new stars and galaxies. The universe is ever-evolving, so while changes may seem alarming, they are also the catalyst for new beginnings.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for sharing your insights with us. These findings not only change the way we see distant galaxies but also encourage us to reflect on our own place in the cosmos. Any final thoughts you’d like to leave with our readers?
Astronomy Expert: Absolutely! I encourage everyone to look up at the night sky with curiosity. The universe is full of stories, and with each new observation, we uncover more about our origins and the profound beauty and complexity of cosmic interactions. Keep wondering, because there is always more to learn!
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your time and expertise today! We look forward to more incredible discoveries as our technology advances and our understanding of the universe deepens.