Gravitational lensing is a fascinating phenomenon that occurs when a massive object, like a galaxy or black hole, bends the light from a more distant object behind it. This bending happens because the massive object's gravity warps the space around it, causing the light to take a curved path. As a result, we can see multiple images of the same distant object or even a ring-like structure known as an Einstein ring.
Astronomers use gravitational lensing to study the universe, as it helps them observe objects that would otherwise be too faint or far away. By analyzing the way light is distorted, scientists can learn more about the dark matter surrounding galaxies and the overall structure of the universe.