NASA has unveiled a striking cosmic image depicting the ongoing collision of two galaxies, IC 2163 and NGC 2207. The image, resembling a scene from a horror film, features the galaxies' cores that appear as 'eyes,' creating an unsettling visage.
This captivating view is a product of collaboration between the James Webb Space Telescope and the Hubble Space Telescope, capturing the interaction between these celestial bodies.
Despite the eerie appearance, NASA clarified that it is merely an optical illusion. IC 2163, a smaller spiral galaxy, has been moving closer to NGC 2207 for millions of years. While a direct collision has not yet occurred, both galaxies are experiencing 'tidal shocks' in their arms, where dust and gas materials become agitated, forming bright, vein-like structures highlighted in red.
The star formation activity in these galaxies is significantly higher than in the Milky Way. While our galaxy produces two to three new solar-sized stars each year, IC 2163 and NGC 2207 generate approximately 20.
The pink and white regions in the image indicate areas of rapid star formation, appearing as 'buds' of life throughout the structure. Over the past few years, at least seven supernovae have been recorded in these galaxies, adding dramatic energy to the star formation process.
The composite image, utilizing mid-infrared data from Webb and visible and ultraviolet data from Hubble, reveals details such as blue star clusters, which represent newly formed stars. These clusters are concentrated in the most active star formation zones, particularly in the 'eyelid' structures at the edges of IC 2163.
The cosmic dance between IC 2163 and NGC 2207 could persist for millions of years, potentially culminating in a merger that would reshape their arms and form a new galaxy. Over time, the intense star formation is expected to decline as gas and dust become depleted.
Webb, developed in collaboration with NASA, the European Space Agency, and the Canadian Space Agency, leads in observing cosmic structures. Meanwhile, the iconic Hubble Space Telescope, operational for over three decades, continues to unveil secrets and enhance our understanding of the universe.