Galaxy Zoo Talk

Just a question from a beginner

  • boyofmetaphor by boyofmetaphor

    Would this galaxy be considered a merger? Because of the fact that the main galaxy looks fairly distorted towards the upper elliptical one, I would assume that they are at similar distances; but if that assumption is correct, then would these be considered a merger or just colliding? And should colliding be classified as a merger?

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  • Capella05 by Capella05 moderator in response to boyofmetaphor's comment.

    Hi and welcome to GalaxyZoo @boyofmetaphor 😃

    I personally would not consider this a merger - as there does not appear to be any interaction between the two galaxies. It is most likely just down to line of sight that gives the appearance that they are connected. We would be able to tell if the galaxies are at similar distances (and therefore close to each other) by comparing the redshift (if available from a spectragraph) or by estimating the distance from the PhotoZ. You can find this information on SkyServer.

    Colliding / merging galaxies are basically the same thing, so you may see either of the terms being used interchangeably.

    Let me know if you have any further questions 😃

    Posted