Scientists from Durham University have assessed the likelihood of the Milky Way colliding with the Andromeda galaxy, finding a 50% chance of such an event occurring in the next 10 billion years. Their simulations yielded a much lower probability than previous studies, indicating that Earth might avoid being swallowed in the catastrophic merger. The galaxies are currently 2.5 million light-years apart but are drawn closer by gravitational forces from other nearby galaxies, indicating a dynamic cosmic environment.
It used to appear destined to merge with Andromeda forming a colossal "Milkomeda." Now, there is a chance that we could avoid this fate entirely.
The Universe is a dynamic place, constantly evolving. We see external galaxies often colliding and merging with other galaxies, sometimes producing the equivalent of cosmic fireworks.
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