Title
Hubble composite image
Caption
Hubble composite image showing the ring of dark matter in the galaxy cluster Cl 0024+17. The ring-like structure is evident in the blue map of the cluster's dark matter distribution. The map was derived from Hubble observations of how the gravity of the cluster Cl 0024+17 distorts the light of more distant galaxies / an optical illusion called gravitational lensing. Although astronomers cannot see dark matter / they can infer its existence by mapping the distorted shapes of the background galaxies. astronomers don't know what dark matter is made of / they hypothesize that it is a type of elementary particle that pervades the universe. The map is superimposed on a Hubble Advanced Camera for Surveys image of the cluster taken in November 2004.
Info+
NASA, ESA, and The Hubble Heritage Team/World History Archive
Credit line
Photo12/Ann Ronan Picture Library
Reference
ARP11A02_491
License type
Rights managed
Available size
53,2Mb (3,1Mb) / 14,3in x 14,4in / 4300 x 4323 (300dpi)