CPOD 8.1.12: Andromeda (M31) From Your Backyard

The Andromeda Galaxy is a spiral galaxy approximately 2.5 million light-years from Earth in the Andromeda constellation. Also known as Messier 31, M31, or NGC 224, it is often referred to as the Great Andromeda Nebula in older texts. (Wikipedia)

This stunning image was taken by astronomer Bob Anderson from his home in Southern England. Remarkably, this was Bob's first attempt at imaging M31, here are the details:

'Scope: TEC 140
Mount: ASA DDM60 Pro mount - an awesome bit of kit as even the 1,500 second subs were unguided!
Camera: FLI ML16803
Subs: 5 x 1,000 seconds using each of Astrodon Tru-Balance RGB filters plus 10 x 1,500 seconds using an Astrodon 3nm Ha filter
Software: PixInsight and Photoshop CS6

You can see more info on on his image and processing over at StarGazers Lounge.

Incredible Simulations of the Milky Way - Andromeda Collision

Cannibalistic Galaxies

Billions of years just passed before your eyes

Our neighbouring galaxy Andromeda (M31) shows evidence of being a past cannibal and is 3 times the size of the Milky Way. We are predicted to be “consumed” within the next 7 billion years. “It would be a beautiful night sky, it will be quite spectacular.” -Author/Astrophysicist Mark Irwin.

The above gif is an artist simulation of what it would look like when the Milky Way is consumed by Andromeda, which the is closest spiral galaxy. It’s a fascinating image, too bad it’s not going to happen for another 5 to 7 billion years from now.

Scientist predict that the collision may not even disrupt our solar system, however life on Earth will have long since been eradicated due to “increasing luminosity of the Sun”.

Below is video showing a more detailed simulation of the collision: