New data on the size of the Andromeda Galaxy

New data on the size of the Andromeda Galaxy

The Milky Way and Andromeda before the merger

Scientists have found that the neighboring Andromeda galaxy is about the same size as ours. Previously it was believed that the neighbor was 2-3 times larger than the Milky Way, and once the big Andromeda would swallow us all up. A new study is trying to level the score between them.

The analysis showed that the weight of Andromeda is 800 billion times more than solar, which is why it acts on a par with the Milky Way. The study used a new method of calculating the speed required to exit the galaxy. To escape from Earth, the rocket needs to accelerate above 11 km / s, but to avoid the gravity of the Milky Way, you will need 550 km / s.

The findings suggest that scientists previously overestimated the amount of dark matter in Andromeda. Investigating the orbits of high-speed stars, the new analysis revealed that the neighboring galaxy has less dark matter and only a third of it is revealed in previous observations. The Milky Way and Andromeda belong to spiral-type galaxies, and light takes 2 million years to sneak through them. If Andromeda is no longer considered our elder sister, then new simulations are needed, showing what will happen in a galactic collision.

New data on the size of the Andromeda Galaxy

The Milky Way and Andromeda before the merger

Previously it was believed that there is a large neighbor and a smaller Milky Way, but the scenario is changing. Surprisingly, only one study can turn the theory that has been among scientists for over 50 years.

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