How the Milky Way-Andromeda merger became so uncertain
Briefly

Astronomers have long predicted that the Milky Way would merge with the Andromeda galaxy in approximately four billion years. This conclusion stemmed from measurements showing Andromeda approaching at 109 km/s. However, recent observations from Hubble and Gaia reveal complexities that challenge this narrative. New data indicates that the dynamics of these galaxies may be influenced by factors not previously accounted for, suggesting the future interaction between the Milky Way and Andromeda could differ from the standard collision scenario.
In about four billion years, the Milky Way is expected to collide with the Andromeda galaxy. New data, however, suggests this scenario may be overly simplistic.
The latest findings from Hubble and Gaia indicate that the predicted merger of the Milky Way and Andromeda may not occur as initially thought, raising new questions.
Read at Big Think
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