Marvel has released the cover for the first issue of its upcoming cosmic crossover event: Guardians of the Galaxy & X-Men: The Black Vortex Alpha, which launches in February.
 
The issue will be penned by Sam Humphries (Ultimate Comics Ultimates, Uncanny X-Force), with art and cover by Ed McGuinness (Superman/Batman, Deadpool).  The Alpha issue will launch the crossover that will continue in issues of Guardians of the Galaxy, Legendary Star-Lord, All-New X-Men, Captain Marvel, Nova, Cyclops and more.
 
The Black Vortex is an ancient artifact that can unlock any user’s true cosmic potential, similar to Jean Grey’s transformation into the Phoenix, or Norin Radd becoming the Silver Surfer.  Now the Black Vortex has been claimed by gangster Mr. Knife and Thanos’ son Thane.  The Guardians of the Galaxy, the X-Men, and their allies must unite to save the universe from impending galactic chaos.