A Gravitational Lens occurs when the gravity of a massive object bends the path of light traveling through space. According to Einstein’s theory of general relativity, massive objects such as galaxies and galaxy clusters curve the spacetime surrounding them. When light from a more distant object passes through this curved region, its path can be bent before reaching an observer on Earth. This effect can distort, magnify, or even create multiple images of the distant object. When the alignment is nearly perfect, the light can sometimes appear as a luminous circle called an Einstein ring. Astronomers use gravitational lensing to observe extremely distant galaxies and to study matter that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to see, including dark matter.
Framing Note: Frames are selected by the artist and are included primarily to protect the artwork during handling and transit. Collectors are welcome to reframe the artwork after receipt according to their personal preference.
Material: Mixed Metals
Imperial
Piece: 20" × 30"
Frame: 22" × 32"
Weight: 2.68 lbs
Metric
Piece: 50.8 × 76.2 cm
Frame: 55.9 × 81.3 cm
Weight: 1.22 kg
A Gravitational Lens occurs when the gravity of a massive object bends the path of light traveling through space. According to Einstein’s theory of general relativity, massive objects such as galaxies and galaxy clusters curve the spacetime surrounding them. When light from a more distant object passes through this curved region, its path can be bent before reaching an observer on Earth. This effect can distort, magnify, or even create multiple images of the distant object. When the alignment is nearly perfect, the light can sometimes appear as a luminous circle called an Einstein ring. Astronomers use gravitational lensing to observe extremely distant galaxies and to study matter that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to see, including dark matter.
Framing Note: Frames are selected by the artist and are included primarily to protect the artwork during handling and transit. Collectors are welcome to reframe the artwork after receipt according to their personal preference.
Material: Mixed Metals
Imperial
Piece: 20" × 30"
Frame: 22" × 32"
Weight: 2.68 lbs
Metric
Piece: 50.8 × 76.2 cm
Frame: 55.9 × 81.3 cm
Weight: 1.22 kg
