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| This captivating image from the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope showcases the galaxy NGC 1559, a barred spiral located approximately 35 million light-years away in the constellation Reticulum. |
A breathtaking new image from the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope showcases the barred spiral galaxy NGC 1559, located about 35 million light-years away in the constellation Reticulum. This vibrant photograph is a composite of ten separate Hubble images, each filtered to capture specific wavelengths of light, ranging from ultraviolet to near-infrared.
The image highlights regions of active star formation, particularly in the bright red and pink patches indicative of H II regions, where ionized hydrogen emits H-alpha light. This glow results from newly formed stars in dense molecular clouds, which emit ultraviolet light that ionizes surrounding hydrogen gas.
These observations stem from six different Hubble programs, conducted from 2009 to 2024. Astronomers have utilized this data to explore various phenomena, including ionized gas dynamics, supernova follow-ups, and measurements contributing to the Hubble constant.
The comprehensive Hubble archive makes this wealth of data available for ongoing research and stunning visual presentations. In conjunction with Hubble’s findings, the James Webb Space Telescope continues to observe NGC 1559, enhancing our understanding of this magnificent galaxy.
