How gravitational lensing acts like a magnifying glass

Einstein’s general theory of relativity predicts that objects deform spacetime, causing any light that passes by to be deflected. This effect is only noticeable for very massive objects. One result of this deformation of spacetime is that light from a distant source is deflected around a massive intervening object, such as a galaxy, making the distant source appear distorted, but brighter, forming characteristic rings of light, known as Einstein rings.

Credit:

ESO/M. Kornmesser

About the Image

Id:eso1426b
Type:Artwork
Release date:26 August 2014, 18:00
Related releases:eso1426
Size:3968 x 2800 px

About the Object

Name:H-ATLAS J142935.3-002836
Type:Early Universe : Cosmology : Phenomenon : Lensing
Category:Illustrations

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