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Hubble Captures Two Spiral Galaxies Beginning to Merge

Original: Hubble image of Arp 240, also known as NGC 5257 and NGC 5258. NGC 5257 (left) and NGC 5258 (right), two spiral galaxies

The Hubble Space Telescope has released an image of Arp 240, a pair of spiral galaxies, NGC 5257 and NGC 5258, that are similar in mass and size and are in the early stages of a merger. The image shows a faint bridge of stars connecting the two galaxies, evidence of the gravitational pull drawing them together, and the striking cosmic scene is drawing attention online.

Why now: The striking Hubble image of two merging galaxies is being widely shared among space enthusiasts.

Hubble Space Telescope Arp 240 NGC 5257 NGC 5258

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Evidence

Hubble image of Arp 240, also known as NGC 5257 and NGC 5258. NGC 5257 (left) and NGC 5258 (right), two spiral galaxies of similar mass and size, are in the early stages of a merger. A bridge of dim stars connects the two galaxies, providing evidence of their gravitational… · ArpBot · 9

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