Which galaxy cluster is the most massive known?
Quick Answer
One of the most massive known galaxy clusters is the Phoenix Cluster, also known as SPT-CLJ2344-4243. It is famous for combining enormous mass with intense cooling and star formation in its central galaxy.
The Full Story
The Phoenix Cluster is often cited among the most massive galaxy clusters known, with a mass of roughly a few quadrillion solar masses. It lies billions of light-years away and contains hundreds of galaxies bound by gravity, plus vast amounts of hot gas and dark matter. The cluster is especially notable because its central galaxy has an unusually high star-formation rate for such a massive system. Galaxy clusters like this are important laboratories for studying dark matter, gas cooling, and large-scale structure in the universe.
Key Facts
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"This cluster is a monster of gravity, gas, and galaxy growth."