The Cosmic Cannibalism of Galaxies Found Year: 2003
Discoverers: UCLA, UC Santa Cruz
Location: The Andromeda Galaxy
In 2003, researchers from UCLA and UC Santa Cruz revealed fascinating insights into the dynamic nature of galaxies. Just as life on Earth evolves, galaxies can consume one another and change over time. Currently, one of the Milky Way's satellite galaxies is being devoured by the neighboring Andromeda Galaxy.
The remnants of these cosmic "meals" manifest as more than a dozen star clusters within Andromeda. These clusters, often likened to chicken bones, serve as evidence of the galaxy's history of consumption and transformation.
Intergalactic Cannibalism: The Fate of the Milky Way Source: Shutterstock/Outer Space
Andromeda, the larger and more destructive neighbor of the Milky Way, is on a collision course with our galaxy. Scientists predict that in approximately five billion years, Andromeda will eventually target and merge with the Milky Way. This impending cosmic event, while fascinating, can be a bit unsettling to contemplate.
