Spiral galaxy NGC 253 in Sculptor

by: A.Block/MLSC/Univ.of Az/Novapix
Reference: a-gax02-53011
Date: 2009-12-16

NGC 253 is a spiral galaxy (about 12 millions light years away), a member of a small group straggling across the southern constellation of Sculptor. It appears elongated because we see it almost edge-on. NGC 253 is a prototypical starburst galaxy.This galaxy is also one of the dustiest galaxies known. Despite the obscuration, two spiral arms and many bluish clusters of stars can be seen around the edge of the galaxy. Image taken with a 24-inch telescope.

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