Discovery of the Bullseye Galaxy
Scientists found a rare galaxy with nine rings, named LEDA 1313424 or the Bullseye Galaxy.
This was a surprise, as most ringed galaxies only have 2–3 rings.
The discovery was confirmed using the Hubble Space Telescope and the W.M. Keck Observatory, in Hawaii.
What Caused the Rings
A blue dwarf galaxy passed through the Bullseye Galaxy about 50 million years ago.
This rare event created waves of gas in the Bullseye Galaxy, leading to rings of new stars.
The two galaxies are still connected by a trail of gas, even though they are far apart.
These rings won’t last forever and will fade over time.
Possibility of Becoming a GLSB Galaxy
The Bullseye Galaxy may turn into a giant low surface-brightness (GLSB) galaxy in the future.
GLSB galaxies are huge, faint, and rich in hydrogen but have very few stars.
Their mass distribution and behavior challenge standard cosmic theories.
Why GLSB Galaxies Matter
GLSB galaxies may hold clues to understanding dark matter, as they are believed to have a lot of it.
Their unusual structure and slow star formation make them important to study.
One theory suggests that their dark matter halos spin rapidly, spreading material thinly like clay on a potter’s wheel.
Future Research and Insights
Scientists think Bullseye’s size and hydrogen content fit the pattern of GLSB galaxies.
It might have had a 10th ring that has already faded.
Confirming its evolution into a GLSB galaxy can help scientists understand how such galaxies form and test current cosmic theories.
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