Astronomers have identified the smallest and unconscious galaxy ever, which is located about 3 million light-year away. This discovery challenges the existing principles on the galaxy formation, as such small galaxies were destroyed in the acute heat and density of the early universe. Named Andromeda XXXV, it is part of a group of small satellite galaxies revolving around the newly recognized galaxy Andromeda. Researchers suggest that its existence may understand the understanding of cosmic growth and reopen the conditions that allowed small galaxies to remain.
Features of Andromeda XXXV
According to a study published in astrophysical journal letters, Andromeda XXXV is much smaller than other known dwarf galaxies, which measures about 1,000 light-year on its longest axis. Researchers used data from several astronomical surveys and comments from the Hubble Space Telescope to confirm their existence. Allegedly, Eric Bell, a professor at the University of Michigan, described it as a completely functional galaxy, but a million about the size of the Milky Way. ” Scientists were surprised by the ability to maintain the conditions required for star formation despite their size.
Challenge to detect dwarf galaxies
Dwarf galaxies, although are common, it is difficult to find out due to their unconscious nature. Milky Way has many known satellites galaxies, but it has been challenging to identify similar structures around Andromeda. Earlier discovered dwarf galaxies were large and bright in the region, aligning with existing models. Andromeda XXXV, however, is different due to its prolonged star formation period. According to lead researcher Marcos Arius, some similar sized galaxies in Andromeda formed stars until 6 billion years ago, while most satellites of Milky Way stopped the star formation of about 10 billion years ago.
Implications for the principles of galaxy
Scientists are now investigating why Andromeda XXXV was not affected by extreme conditions that disrupt other small galaxies. Bell reported that this period in the universe was “like a VAT of boiling oil,” was expected to strip the galaxies of gas required for the star formation. The existence of Andromeda XXXV suggests that current theories about galaxy formation and development may require revaluation. Further studies and upcoming space missions and more insight can provide how galaxies like Andromeda XXXV remained despite harsh cosmic conditions.
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