In the depths of this captivating image captured by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope lies an expansive galaxy cluster. This celestial behemoth exerts its influence on the surrounding space, much like a submerged sea monster causing ripples on the surface. The evident distortions in the fabric of spacetime are a telltale sign of its presence. The cluster’s immense mass warps spacetime, creating a gravitational lens that bends the light emitted by distant galaxies situated beyond its reach. As a result, we witness the mesmerizing display of twisted streaks and arcs of light within this image. The surroundings of the cluster are adorned with a myriad of other galaxies, while a few foreground stars, recognizable by their distinctive diffraction spikes, are scattered throughout the scene.
Known as eMACS J1823.1+7822, this particular galaxy cluster resides nearly nine billion light-years away in the constellation Draco. It is one of five exceptionally colossal galaxy clusters that Hubble has investigated, aiming to measure the strength of these gravitational lenses. Such measurements provide valuable insights into the distribution of dark matter within galaxy clusters. These powerful gravitational lenses, including eMACS J1823.1+7822, act as natural telescopes on a grand scale, enabling astronomers to study distant galaxies that would otherwise be too faint or distant to observe clearly.
This captivating image is a result of combining data from eight different filters and two separate instruments: Hubble’s Advanced Camera for Surveys and Wide Field Camera 3. These instruments allow astronomers to observe celestial objects within specific slices of the electromagnetic spectrum by employing filters that select precise wavelengths. By incorporating observations from multiple wavelengths, astronomers can construct a more comprehensive understanding of the structure, composition, and behavior of the object in question, surpassing the limitations of visible light alone.
Source: NASA