Dazzling images from space
These galaxies are named Anntennae, after their long, antenna-like ‘arms’ that can be observed in wide angle views of the system. During these collisions, the clouds of dust and gas are compressed, generating a multitude of new stars. The ultraviolet light from these new stars, heats the hydrogen clouds, which emits the red light seen in the image. The final of the collision is estimated to take place in about 400 million years from now.
More amazing images of stars, planets, galaxies and supernovas can be found on the HubbleSite.
