Astronomers spend their time gazing out into the universe — and occasionally the universe seems to peer right back!
This image, a composite of data from the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) and the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, shows a very rare cosmic sight: a pair of interacting galaxies that have taken on an ocular structure.
These two galaxies are named IC 2163 (left) and NGC 2207 (right). The duo lies approximately 114 million light-years from Earth in the direction of the constellation of Canis Major (The Greater Dog).
Originally published by Cosmos as Cosmic specs
Cosmos
Curated content from the editorial staff at Cosmos Magazine.
Read science facts, not fiction...
There’s never been a more important time to explain the facts, cherish evidence-based knowledge and to showcase the latest scientific, technological and engineering breakthroughs. Cosmos is published by The Royal Institution of Australia, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the world of science. Financial contributions, however big or small, help us provide access to trusted science information at a time when the world needs it most. Please support us by making a donation or purchasing a subscription today.
