Galaxy

As the northern hemisphere moves into springtime, that brings about the start of galaxy season for astrophotographers. During the warmer northern months of spring and summer, Earth is facing towards the outer edge of the Milky Way galaxy (our home galaxy). This makes it easier to see the remote galaxies. During the colder months of fall and winter, the nighttime side of Earth faces into the heart of our galaxy. This is where we see the numerous nebula.

To kick off galaxy season 2024, we take a look at Messier 106 (M106), also known as NGC 4258. It is a majestic intermediate spiral galaxy located roughly 23 million light-years away in the constellation Canes Venatici, the Hunting Dogs. M106 is a giant among galaxies, boasting a diameter of over 130,000 light-years, comparable to our own Milky Way galaxy

NGC 4725 is a striking spiral galaxy situated in the constellation Coma Berenices. Its placement in the night sky makes it a great subject for astronomers and astrophotographers alike. From Earth, NGC 4725 is 40 million light years away (40 mega-light years). This particular galaxy is the brightest member of the Coma I group of galaxies.

NGC 4725 showcases a grand spiral structure with well-defined arms that sweep outward from its bright central core. The galaxy spans a considerable distance, with its spiral arms adorned with regions of active star formation and interstellar dust.

Galaxies M81 and M82 stand as celestial neighbors in the Ursa Major constellation, captivating astronomers and stargazers alike with their unique features and cosmic stories.

M81, also known as Bode’s Galaxy, is a grand spiral galaxy, exhibiting well-defined spiral arms and a prominent central bar structure. The outer arms are adorned with regions of star formation and dust lanes. Around 29 million light years away, the bright central region contributes to the galaxy’s overall brightness.

The galaxy NGC 6946 is around 25 million light years away located on the boundary of the constellations Cepheus and Cygnus. The Fireworks Galaxy is about half the size of the Milky Way.

Upon closer inspection of the image, you will notice a strange bright spot located above and to the right of the galaxy core. At first, it looks like a flaw in the image, but it is actually identified as the Red Ellipse (appears blue in the image). This area could be a super bubble or a supernova remnant. As for now, it is still unknown.