A three panel illustration. Panel 1: Two spiral galaxies merging. Panel 2: A bright flare. Panel 3: An elliptical galaxy.

Fast Galaxy Evolution

Two galaxies merge (Panel 1), funneling a large amount of gas into the central region. The gas compresses, sparking a firestorm of star birth (Panel 2). Devoid of its fuel, the galaxy settles into a quiet existence, composed of aging stars (Panel 3).

Credits: NASA, ESA, A. Field, STScI
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Image CreditNASA, ESA, A. Field, STScI
Size1024x464px