Arp 272 is a pair of interacting galaxies located in the constellation Hercules, approximately 445 million light-years away from Earth. It is cataloged in the Arp Atlas of Peculiar Galaxies compiled by astronomer Halton Arp.

The two galaxies in Arp 272 are known as NGC 6050 and IC 1179. They are in the midst of a gravitational interaction, which has distorted their shapes and triggered intense star formation in the process. These galaxies are believed to be in the early stages of merging, a common phenomenon in the universe where galaxies collide and eventually combine to form larger galaxies.

NGC 6050, the larger of the two galaxies, has a prominent tidal tail extending from its core, a result of gravitational interactions with IC 1179. This tidal tail is a stream of stars and gas pulled away from the galaxy due to the gravitational forces involved in the interaction.

Arp 272 provides astronomers with an opportunity to study the effects of galactic interactions and mergers on the evolution of galaxies, including the formation of new stars and the restructuring of their morphology. It serves as a fascinating example of the dynamic nature of galaxies and their evolution over cosmic timescales.

We explore Arp 272, a pair of interactive galaxies, through the lens of the Hubble Space Telescope. Yes, you’ll also find a planet lying in the middle of it all.

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