Galaxy Cluster SDSS J0146-0929

This image is packed full of galaxies! A keen eye can spot exquisite ellipticals and spectacular spirals, seen at various orientations: edge-on with the plane of the galaxy visible, face-on to show off magnificent spiral arms, and everything in between. The most alluring subject sits at the center of the frame. With the charming name of SDSS J0146-0929, this is a galaxy cluster — a monstrous collection of hundreds of galaxies all shackled together in the unyielding grip of gravity. The mass of this galaxy cluster is large enough to severely distort the space-time around it, creating the odd, looping curves that almost encircle the center of the cluster. These graceful arcs are examples of a cosmic phenomenon known as an Einstein Ring. The ring is created as the light from distant objects, like galaxies, pass by an extremely large mass, like this galaxy cluster.