One of the most spectacular encounters of Hubble with a galaxy has been brought back into focus by a recent image posted on X. The image, although posted recently, is actually from 2008 when it was taken by the Hubble Space Telescope from NASA. The image captures two galaxies in the distant universe that are caught in a slow-motion encounter.The galaxies, named ESO 593-8, are located 650 million light-years away from our planet in the constellation of Sagittarius. According to astronomers, this is one of the most classic examples of an encounter between two galaxies. The image captures one of the galaxies as it moves through another, with feathers that give the impression of wings as it passes through space.
What scientists are actually seeing in the Hubble image
The system, known as ESO 593-8, lies about 650 million light-years from Earth in the constellation Sagittarius. Rather than a sudden crash, the scene captures a slow interaction between two galaxies bound by gravity. In the image posted by NASA Hubble on X, one appears elongated and feather-like as it passes through its companion, producing the illusion of wings against the darkness of space. It is believed by NASA that these two galaxies will someday merge to become a single galaxy.
What is the Hubble Telescope by NASA
Named after the renowned astronomer Edwin Hubble, the Hubble Space Telescope is a space-based observatory that was launched in 1990 aboard the space shuttle Discovery. It has been serviced and upgraded during five astronaut missions and has been in operation for more than three decades now. The Hubble Space Telescope observes the universe in ultraviolet and near-infrared wavelengths and has made iconic images and over 1.7 million observations. Its findings have helped transform modern astronomy and the understanding of the expanding universe.
What are people saying online about the image by Hubble
The image has sparked a wave of admiration across social media, with users marvelling at how the universe can resemble artwork. One viewer called it a “beautiful” while another called it a “deceptive cartoon for adults.” People also commented on how “ the universe never stops creating art”.
