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Stephans quintet
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Stephans quintet
Stephans quintet. Optical image of Stephans quintet. This group of galaxies is 300 million light years from Earth in the constellation Pegasus. It consists of NGC 7320 (upper right) NGC7319 (lower right), NGC7318A and B (centre left) and NGC7317 (upper left). The galaxies are so close together they are tearing each other apart with gravitational tidal forces, leaving trails of dust and gas. The red areas are hydrogen clouds and sites of star birth. It is argued that NGC7320 is not actually part of the cluster, but lies in the foreground.
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Astrophysical Astrophysics Clouds Cluster Compact Dust Galaxies Galaxy Gravitational Group Optical Image Quintet Stellar Nursery Telescope Tidal Forces
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This print showcases Stephans Quintet, a group of galaxies located 300 million light years away from Earth in the constellation Pegasus. The optical image reveals the intricate dance of these celestial bodies as they interact with one another through powerful gravitational tidal forces. The galaxies, namely NGC 7320, NGC 7319, NGC 7318A and B, and NGC 7317, are so closely intertwined that they appear to be tearing each other apart. The trails of dust and gas left behind by this cosmic ballet can be observed throughout the image. The striking red areas represent hydrogen clouds where new stars are being born in stellar nurseries. It is worth noting that there is ongoing debate regarding whether NGC 7320 truly belongs to this galactic cluster or if it lies in the foreground. This awe-inspiring photograph serves as a testament to the immense power and beauty found within our vast universe. It highlights the complexities of astrophysics and offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of gravitational interactions between galaxies. As we explore deeper into space using advanced telescopes like those employed for capturing this image, we continue to unravel the mysteries surrounding compact galaxy clusters such as Stephans Quintet.
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