This Hubble Space Telescope image shows the cores of the twin Antennae galaxies, so named because the galactic collision produced two long tails of luminous matter that resemble an insect’s antennae.
A ground-based image shows the galaxies and the text describes the stellar fireworks seen in the Hubble image.
This image from the Hubble Space Telescope shows the cores of the twin Antennae galaxies. The galaxies are so named because their collision produced two long tails of luminous matter that resemble an insect's antennae. A ground-based image showing these "antennae" is also included, and the text provides a description of the stellar fireworks seen in the Hubble image.
Teachers can use this lithograph as:
An engagement tool in an inquiry-based lesson. Have students study the image side of the lithograph. Ask them to write down any questions they have about the image. When the students are finished, their questions can be used in a variety of ways:
A content reading tool. Have students read the back of the lithograph and then write a quiz for the class.
A component in a compare/contrast activity. Have students compare the features/structure of this galaxy to those of the Whirlpool Galaxy found in the related materials below. A T-chart or Venn diagram would be a good organizational tool to use for this activity. Examples are included in the related materials.
Lithograph: Whirlpool Galaxy
HubbleSite press release: "Hubble Reveals Stellar Fireworks Accompanying Galaxy Collisions"
Amazing Space resources by type: Graphic Organizers
Amazing Space resources by topic: Galaxies