Hubble Explores Mysterious Low Brightness Galaxy

The NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope has captured a detailed image of the spiral galaxy NGC 45, located 22 million light-years away in the constellation Cetus. This study is part of two observing programs focusing on star formation. The first program surveyed 50 nearby galaxies using Hubble's ultraviolet to near-infrared capabilities. The second program focused on H-alpha light, highlighting star-forming regions in NGC 45 as bright pink-red patches.

NGC 45 is a low surface brightness galaxy, a type that is fainter than the night sky due to having fewer stars relative to its gas and dark matter. These galaxies are challenging to detect but are crucial for understanding galaxy formation and evolution. It is estimated that 30–60% of all galaxies might be low surface brightness galaxies.

Hubble's sensitive instruments are well-suited to study these elusive galaxies, providing valuable insights into their characteristics and the broader processes of galaxy development.

Text Credit: ESA/Hubble