The active centre of the galaxy ESO 148-IG 02.II.

We present an analysis of IRAS-fluxes, CCD slit spectra and i and Hα images of the closely interacting pair of galaxies ESO 148-IG 02. The galaxy is an exceptionally luminous IRAS source (L_IR_~2 10^12^ L_sun_). The bulk of this radiation originates from a warm dust component heated by a burst of star formation. Centered on the nucleus of one of the galaxies, a flattened system of ionized gas of relatively high ionization is found. The emission-lines originating in this region exhibit broad wings, extending towards the blue. The extension of these wings corresponds to a velocity difference of at least 1500km s^-1^. Narrower emission-lines and a lower level of excitation is found around the other nucleus. The ionized gas in the whole central region is found to be expanding. The spectra were modelled by a combination of ionization by stars and by shocks. We suggest that supernova winds are driving the expansion of the gas. Spectral features characteristic of Wolf-Rayet stars (predominantly of type WN) are present over the whole central region.