The discussion centers on the gravitational lensing effects of galaxies, particularly those similar in size to the Milky Way. It highlights that the magnification of background objects is not straightforward due to the irregular shape of galaxies, which can produce multiple distorted images rather than a single magnified view. The deflection of light is influenced by the mass of the galaxy and the distance of the light source, with reference to Hartle's Introduction to General Relativity indicating a deflection of approximately 1.7 seconds of arc for light grazing the Sun. The complexity of calculating light deflection for a galaxy like the Milky Way suggests the need for advanced computational modeling.
PREREQUISITESAstronomers, astrophysicists, and students interested in gravitational lensing, light deflection, and computational modeling of celestial phenomena.
In Hartle's Introduction to General Relativity, he studies the deflection of light for a spherical mass in chapter 9. The estimate is ##1.7## seconds of arc for a light ray grazing the Sun. There would be less deflection for a light ray further from the Sun. In other words, it depends on the mass of the Sun and the impact parameter.Mikael17 said:OK, how much would light then bend , when passing nearby a milkyway size galaxy ?