Galaxies on a String . ... Credit Copyright: Acquisition - Martin Winder, Processing - Warren Keller Explanation: Galaxies NGC 5216 (top right) and NGC 5218 really do look like they are connected by a string. ... The debris trail that joins them, along with NGC 5218's comma-shaped extension and the distorted arms of NGC 5216 are a consequence of mutual gravitational tides that disrupt the galaxies as they repeatedly swing close to one another. ... NASA Web Site Statements, Warnings, and Disclaimers . ...