The Hubble Space Telescope recently captured an image of galaxy pair Arp 107 that gives off the eerie feeling of being watched. NASA released the image, showcasing two galaxies in the midst of colliding with each other. While we often think of space as orderly, this image reminds us that even galaxies can collide and interact in unpredictable ways.
The larger galaxy on the left is known as a Seyfert galaxy, named after astronomer Carl Seyfert who first described this type of “active” spiral galaxy in 1943. Seyfert galaxies are characterized by the presence of supermassive black holes at their centers and emit high amounts of radiation. NASA estimates that about 10% of all galaxies may be Seyfert galaxies.
In the Hubble image, the Seyfert galaxy is a stunning sight with its blue spiral arms and lanes of dust. However, it’s the interaction with its smaller companion on the right that truly captivates. The two galaxies are connected by a delicate bridge of dust and gas, creating a mesmerizing visual.
Arp 107, the name given to this galaxy pair, is named after astronomer Halton Arp, who created the Atlas of Peculiar Galaxies. This catalog, released in 1966, features 338 unique and fascinating galaxies. Arp 107 stood out for its intriguing interaction between the two galaxies and the bridge connecting them.
Located 465 million light-years away from Earth, Arp 107 demonstrates the ongoing wonder of the Hubble Space Telescope. Even after more than three decades since its launch, Hubble continues to provide breathtaking views of the cosmos and uncover the mysteries of our universe.
