Galactic Bloom

Description

2018 Second Place, Northwestern Scientific Images Contest. This cosmic flower was not grown in nature, but by astrophysicists using supercomputers. At the center of the flower a simulated galaxy shines in bright yellow. The galaxy is surrounded by multi- colored petals, representing different origins and consisting of many smaller lines; each is a record of the path of matter through space. Simulations like this help scientists understand the cosmic origin story of Earths ingredients by breaking down the life of the material before it became the world as you know it.

Abstract

This image originally appeared as part of Northwestern's Scientific Images Contest. The contest and subsequent exhibitions are organized by Science in Society, the university's research center for science education and public engagement. Further information and opportunities to participate are available on their website.

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