And if scientists are to understand the universe, they first must understand the galaxies that inhabit it. The study of space has been limited by technology, which for years restricted astronomers to a relatively small view of the universe. Once thought to be celestial deserts, bereft of interstellar gas, ellipticals now show signs of at least moderate amounts of gas, which is necessary for the formation of new stars. But observations still indicate that the majority of the stars in elliptical galaxies are at least as old as the galaxies themselves. Discovering how elliptical galaxies were formed and how they evolve lies at both the heart of Statler's research and in the center of controversy in astronomy circles.
Some theorists believe that ellipticals are formed when two spiral galaxies collide and merge.
Other scientists believe ellipticals form on their own, without any help from spirals. But unlike some astronomers and astrophysicists, Statler doesn't feel compelled to choose a side in the debate. There are different ways to go about this scientific treasure hunt for data. By focusing on deciphering the three-dimensional shapes of elliptical galaxies, Statler is hoping to hit the astronomical jackpot. Some ellipticals are shaped like a roll of a submarine sandwich, while others are a little rounder, like a hamburger bun.