Our Milky Way galaxy gobbled up a smaller galaxy about 11.8 billion years ago, scientists find

Scientists have uncovered evidence suggesting that our Milky Way galaxy consumed a smaller galaxy about 11.8 billion years ago, when the universe was much younger. This discovery, made by observing clusters of stars near the Milky Way's center, sheds light on the dynamic and often violent history of galactic evolution. This finding is significant as it helps us understand how galaxies grow and merge over time, providing insight into the Milky Way's formation and future. The implications extend to our comprehension of cosmic structures and the processes that shape them.