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Einstein ring caused by gravitational lensing
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Einstein ring caused by gravitational lensing
Einstein ring. Coloured combined radio and infra- red image of an Einstein ring in the system B1938+ 666. An Einstein ring is formed when two massive objects are perfectly aligned with each other as seen from Earth. In the case of B1938+666, a huge galaxy (white) is positioned between Earth and another galaxy. Infrared (orange) and radio frequency (blue, green) radiation from the distant galaxy is bent around the nearer one by its gravitational pull, forming a ring. The phenomenon is known as gravitational lensing. The idea that light could be bent by gravity was put forward by Einstein in his general theory of relativity
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Media ID 6442787
© NASA/ESA/STSCI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1998 Cosmology Einstein Galaxy Gravitational Gravitational Lens Hubble Image Lens Relativity Ring
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the mesmerizing beauty of an Einstein ring, a phenomenon caused by gravitational lensing. In this particular image, we are presented with a coloured combined radio and infrared view of the Einstein ring in the B1938+666 system. The concept behind an Einstein ring is truly remarkable - it occurs when two massive objects align perfectly from our perspective on Earth. In this case, a colossal galaxy (depicted in white) stands between us and another distant galaxy. As radiation in both infrared (represented by orange hues) and radio frequencies (displayed as blue and green tones) emanates from the faraway galaxy, it encounters the immense gravitational pull of the nearer one. As predicted by Albert Einstein's general theory of relativity, this gravitational force bends and warps light itself. Consequently, we witness a breathtaking sight: the radiation from the distant galaxy forms an exquisite ring around its closer counterpart. This extraordinary occurrence is known as gravitational lensing. Dating back to 1998, this Hubble image captured by Science Photo Library serves as a testament to humanity's continuous exploration into astronomy and cosmology. It reminds us of Einstein's groundbreaking contributions to science while offering a glimpse into the wonders that exist beyond our own celestial neighborhood.
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