Bow Wave Diagram (IMAGE) Southwest Research Institute Caption New data from the IBEX spacecraft show that the heliosphere’s lower speed, combined with higher magnetic pressures found in the interstellar medium, prevent the formation of a bow shock, which for decades was thought to form ahead of the heliosphere as it moved through the galaxy. Instead, these factors combine to suggest the heliosphere creates more of a bow “wave” as it travels through space. Credit Southwest Research Institute Usage Restrictions May be used by the media and the public for educational and informational purposes only. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.