The Evolving Universe

Smithsonian Institution

A Universe of Galaxies

Bullet Cluster • 1E0657-56

Bullet image

Credit: NASA/CXC/CfA,STScI,U.Az

Observers: Maxim Markevitch, D. Clowe

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  • Distance from Earth: 3.3 billion light years
  • Size: 3 million light years
  • Telescope: Chandra, Magellan
  • Light: X-ray (pink), Visible (white, orange)

Did You Know?

What Was Happening Then?

Light from the Bullet Cluster takes 3.3 billion years to reach Earth.

When the light we observe now left the Bullet Cluster, Earth's atmosphere contained no oxygen, and single-cell life was just forming.

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Related Exhibit


The Explore the Universe exhibition at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Learn more about human exploration of the universe. Visit the Explore the Universe exhibit at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum or online.