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Most elliptical galaxies can usually be found within galaxy clusters. However, a new image of the NGC 474 galaxy captured by Hubble shows an interesting picture. Instead of being surrounded by galaxy clusters, NGC 474 is in a relatively empty space. In addition, the galaxy is surrounded by shells.
NASA says it could be the result of NGC 474 absorbing smaller galaxies. Many believe that this could have happened billions of years ago. Ultimately, however, no one is entirely sure how these tidal-like shells formed around the galaxy.
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Look at this galaxy surrounded by shells
galaxy surrounded by shells
NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope has discovered fantastic things. For starters, his nearly 30-year observations have taught us a great deal about how the universe expanded. In addition, the telescope recently captured an image of two closed galaxies in a dance. Now, however, a new photo gives us a great look at a galaxy surrounded by shells.
The galaxy in question is NGC 474, and is an elliptical galaxy. Hubble recently captured a close-up image of the galaxy, revealing more about its size. Scientists estimate that the galaxy is 2.5 times larger than our own Milky Way. But, as I pointed out earlier, this size is not the only interesting feature.
This is because several layers of shells surround the galaxy. Scientists are not exactly sure what caused the shells. However, they believe it may have been caused by galactic fusion. This fusion could have created the different layers of shells. NASA says it would be similar to how a pebble falling into a pond could create ripples in the water.
The story goes on
Student NGC 474
close up view of the Hubble Telescope
As I noted earlier, NGC 474 is in a mostly empty space. In all, it is about 100 million light-years away from Earth. It also measures approximately 250,000 light-years in diameter.
Because of their interesting features, scientists have studied the tidal shells that surround the galaxy. Multiple studies have emerged on how shells formed, although the general consensus still seems that NGC 474 absorbed another galaxy billions of years ago. What makes this galaxy surrounded by shells even more intriguing, though, is that it is moving away from the Sun.
Scientists believe that the galaxy is moving away at a speed of 2412 kilometers per second thanks to dark energy. As such, it can continue to move farther and farther away from the Sun. Astronomers also discovered a supernova inside the galaxy. It was named SN 2017fgc after its discovery in 2017.
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