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Taffy Galaxies Collide, Leave Behind Bridge of Star-Forming Material
In a stunning display of cosmic violence, two galaxies have collided and left behind a bridge of star-forming material. Dubbed the "Taffy galaxies," these two galactic bodies are located approximately 300 million light-years away from Earth. The collision has resulted in a spectacular display of cosmic fireworks, with the bridge of star-forming material serving as a testament to the sheer power and energy involved in such an event.
What are Taffy Galaxies?
Taffy galaxies are two interacting galaxies that have collided and merged together. They are named after their resemblance to the popular candy, with their stretched-out shapes and twisted appearance. The Taffy galaxies were first discovered in 1950 by astronomer Gerard de Vaucouleurs, who noted their unusual shape and proximity to one another.
The Collision
The collision between the Taffy galaxies is believed to have occurred approximately 100 million years ago. The two galaxies are roughly equal in size, with each one measuring about 80,000 light-years across. As they collided, they were pulled apart by gravitational forces, resulting in their stretched-out appearance.
The Bridge of Star-Forming Material
The collision between the Taffy galaxies has left behind a bridge of star-forming material that spans the distance between them. This bridge is made up of gas and dust that has been compressed and heated by the collision. As a result, new stars are being formed within this bridge at an astonishing rate.
The Importance of Studying Collisions
The collision between the Taffy galaxies provides astronomers with a unique opportunity to study the effects of galactic collisions on star formation. By observing this event, scientists can gain insights into how stars form and evolve within these extreme environments.
Conclusion
The collision between the Taffy galaxies is a stunning example of the power and energy involved in galactic collisions. The bridge of star-forming material left behind by this event serves as a testament to the incredible forces at work in our universe. By studying events like this, scientists can gain a better understanding of how our universe works and how it came to be.
FAQs
1. What are Taffy galaxies?
Taffy galaxies are two interacting galaxies that have collided and merged together.
2. When did the collision between the Taffy galaxies occur?
The collision between the Taffy galaxies is believed to have occurred approximately 100 million years ago.
3. What is the bridge of star-forming material?
The bridge of star-forming material is made up of gas and dust that has been compressed and heated by the collision between the Taffy galaxies.
4. Why is studying collisions important?
Studying collisions between galaxies provides astronomers with a unique opportunity to study the effects of these events on star formation and gain insights into how our universe works.
5. What can we learn from studying events like the collision between the Taffy galaxies?
By studying events like this, scientists can gain a better understanding of how stars form and evolve within extreme environments, providing us with valuable insights into the workings of our universe.
This abstract is presented as an informational news item only and has not been reviewed by a subject matter professional. This abstract should not be considered medical advice. This abstract might have been generated by an artificial intelligence program. See TOS for details.