Hubble’s high-resolution Advanced Camera for Surveys captures fine detail in spiral galaxy LEDA 89996 in a view that measures just 0.84 x 0.82 arcminutes — approx. 1/72 x 1/72 degree. Image credit: ESA/Hubble & NASA. Acknowledgement: Flickr user c.claude.This little-known galaxy, officially named J04542829-6625280, but most often referred to as LEDA 89996, is a classic example of a spiral galaxy. The galaxy is much like our own galaxy, the Milky Way. The disc-shaped galaxy is seen face on, revealing the winding structure of the spiral arms. Dark patches in these spiral arms are in fact dust and gas — the raw materials for new stars. The many young stars that form in these regions make the spiral arms appear bright and bluish.
The galaxy sits in a vibrant area of the night sky within the constellation of Dorado (The Swordfish), and appears very close to the Large Magellanic Cloud — one of the satellite galaxies of the Milky Way.
The observations were carried out with the high resolution channel of Hubble’s Advanced Camera for Surveys. This instrument has delivered some of the sharpest views of the Universe so far achieved by mankind. This image covers only a tiny patch of sky — about the size of a one cent Euro coin held 100 metres away!
M64, more casually known as the “Black Eye” galaxy, is a familiar target for amateur astronomers, but it shines in all its glory – and earns its nickname – in images captured by the Hubble Space Telescope.
A star-studded image of a globular cluster near the core of the Milky Way serves as a reminder that the Hubble Space Telescope continues to wow astronomers with its powerful, crystal-clear vision.
Strong hints have been found of a possible exomoon candidate orbiting a gas giant planet over 4,000 light years away in the constellation of Cygnus the Swan. Should the moon be confirmed later this year by the Hubble Space Telescope, it will be the first moon ever discovered around a planet beyond our Solar System.
