The Rectangular Galaxy

Alex

Most galaxies are in the form of ellipticals, spirals, and irregular blobs, but not LEDA 074886. The dwarf galaxy 70 million light-years away is rectangular:

[Professor Alister Graham of Swinburne University of Technology] said the rare rectangular-shaped galaxy was a very unusual object. "It's one of those things that just makes you smile because it shouldn't exist, or rather you don't expect it to exist.

"It's a little like the precarious Leaning Tower of Pisa or the discovery of some exotic new species which at first glance appears to defy the laws of nature."

The unusually shaped galaxy was detected in a wide field-of-view image taken with the Japanese Subaru Telescope for an unrelated program by Swinburne astrophysicist Dr Lee Spitler.

The astronomers suspect it is unlikely that this galaxy is shaped like a cube. Instead, they believe that it may resemble an inflated disc seen side on, like a short cylinder.

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Let me add to the last statement....any of us who have had a cherished pet,possesion,etc are all Calvins.I named my first dog Hobbes after my favorite comic character.She was to me what Hobbes was to Calvin.Best friend ever! When she passed I lost my true friend and companion of 14 years! The emptiness in my heart and house were unbearable so I got a new dog already named Ivy.She has the heart and soul of Hobbes.This was 9 years ago.The chance to get a male golden retriever was upon me about 4 years ago.He is Calvin! With his mischief,energy and love of his sister Ivy I feel so blessed. So anyone who has any kind of bond with anything or anyone are truly"Calvin and Hobbes".
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