In this classic Hubble image, two galaxies known as UGC 2369 are in the process of merging. The gravitational force they exert on each other is bringing them closer together and dramatically changing their form.

Merging galaxies is a common phenomenon in our universe. The Milky Way Galaxy is expected to merge with its larger neighbor Andromeda in the distant future. This cosmic meeting is expected to take place in about four billion years, and has already been dubbed “Milkomeda”.

Image description:

Two galaxies are seen merging against dark space. On the left, a galaxy with a bright orange-yellow nucleus, dark brown dust and a bluish halo is seen from the edge. On the right, a starry blue galaxy is partially covered in dark brown dust.

Image credits: ESA/Hubble & NASA, A. Evans