Rubin Observatory Discovers Surprise ‘Tail’ on Iconic Galaxy
SMRTR summary
The Vera C. Rubin Observatory's first test image revealed a previously unknown 180,000 light-year stellar stream extending from galaxy Messier 61, likely formed when the galaxy's gravity shredded a smaller dwarf galaxy. This discovery may explain Messier 61's unusually high star formation rate and hints at countless similar features Rubin will uncover.
SMRTR provides this summary for quick context. The original article belongs to Scientific American.
Read the original article