Rotated View of Cluster (z = 0.35)

This animation permits a computer simulation for the structure of a cluster of galaxies to be examined after 8 billion years of evolution. The animation illustrating the full period of evolution may be found here. The redshift z is a measure of time, with z = 0.35 corresponding to about 2 billion years ago. This structure should be compared with that at a redshift of z = 0 (the present time), which may be found in this animation. Notice from this comparison that the structure at the present time is more smooth and orderly than that 2 billion years ago, and that much of the mass has concentrated in a giant elliptical galaxy at the center of the cluster. Usage: Click "Play" to rotate the cluster through 360 degrees to permit a detailed view of its structure. "Stop" pauses the rotation. "Step" moves forward one step and "Back" moves backwards one step. "Home" returns to the beginning from any point.