Andromeda is eating its galactic neighbors
The Andromeda Galaxy is a cosmic cannibal, actively consuming smaller galaxies to grow, a process that will eventually lead to its merger with our Milky Way.
Our closest galactic neighbor, the Andromeda Galaxy, is a cosmic cannibal. It's actively devouring smaller galaxies, a common process that helps large galaxies grow. For instance, Andromeda is pulling apart its companion, M32, with streams of stars and gas extending from Andromeda believed to be remnants of other dwarf galaxies it has consumed over billions of years. Researchers estimate it has merged with at least a dozen smaller galaxies.
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