Colliding Galaxies

Re “Space Telescope Sees Stars Born in Collision of 2 Galaxies,” Oct. 22: It’s wonderful to see my tax dollars at work with the picture of two galaxies colliding, made possible by the Hubble telescope. It makes me proud to be human. Maybe we’ll discover a new element in the remoteness of space to cure cancer, heal heart disease, AIDS or even prolong life. I do know that if we don’t look, we’ll never know.

This is what motivates scientists toward exploration. The short-term benefit to humankind is expressed in technology, like cellular phones, microwave ovens, computers, CDs, safer air travel and cutting-edge medical procedures. All of these everyday items are a direct result of the research and development of those who dream these explorations. These luxuries don’t merely appear. The Cassini probe is an expression of these desires. The payoff is well worth the inconsequential and remote possibility of exposure to plutonium that is equivalent to going to the dentist’s office and having your teeth X-rayed four times.

I would suggest that the doubters of science find out how much medical technology is a direct result of space exploration. Then you can start to talk about payoffs.

CHARLES D. BRETTNER

Marina Del Rey

When I read that our galaxy and Andromeda galaxy will collide “billions” of years hence, I checked the figures by dividing distance apart, 12 million-trillion miles, by closing speed, 300,000 miles per hour, and came out with an approximate collision time of about 5 million years. This really worried me. After all, 5 million years isn’t that far away.

When I rechecked my math, I was much relieved to find that I had erred by a factor of 10. The correct answer is 5 billion years, not 5 million. I still have time to make out my will.

ROY SEIDLER

Los Angeles