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Quasar interacting with a companion galaxy
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Quasar interacting with a companion galaxy
Interacting quasar. Hubble space telescope (HST) optical image of a quasar (bright, at centre) interacting with a companion galaxy. The galaxys core is at lower centre. Around the quasar & companion are swirling wisps of gas. Another galaxy, possibly beginning its interaction with the quasar, is at centre left. Quasars are black holes at the centre of galaxies. The gravitational field of the black hole drags in matter, including whole stars. This matter releases radiation as it falls towards the hole. Image of quasar PG 1012+008; it is 1.4 billion light-years away from Earth and 35, 000 light-years from its companion
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Media ID 6441915
© NASA/ESA/STSCI/J.BAHCALL, PRINCETON IAS/ SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Cosmology Galaxy Hst Imagery Hubble Image Interacting Galaxy Quasar
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This print captures the mesmerizing interaction between a quasar and its companion galaxy, as seen through the lens of the Hubble Space Telescope. At the center of this cosmic dance, we witness the brilliant glow of a quasar, surrounded by swirling wisps of gas that create an ethereal spectacle. Just below lies the core of the companion galaxy, adding to the celestial drama unfolding before our eyes. Intriguingly, another galaxy appears on the left side of the frame, hinting at a potential future interaction with this powerful quasar. Quasars themselves are enigmatic entities residing at the heart of galaxies - black holes that possess such immense gravitational pull that they devour matter and even entire stars. As these celestial bodies succumb to their fate and plunge towards oblivion within these black holes' grasp, they release radiant energy in various forms. The specific object captured here is known as quasar PG 1012+008, located an astonishing 1.4 billion light-years away from Earth. Its proximity to its companion galaxy is approximately 35,000 light-years – a mere cosmic stone's throw in astronomical terms. This extraordinary image not only showcases nature's grandeur but also serves as a testament to humanity's relentless pursuit of knowledge about our vast universe. Through scientific exploration aided by cutting-edge technology like Hubble's optical capabilities, we continue unraveling secrets hidden within distant corners of space-time itself.
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