In a striking new image captured by the Hubble Space Telescope, the grand design spiral galaxy NGC 5643, which is located about 40 million light-years away in the constellation Lupus, displays its intricately defined spiral arms and luminous core.
The Hubble Space Telescope, a collaboration between NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA), has once again provided us with a breathtaking visual of a cosmic wonder. NGC 5643, classified as a grand design spiral galaxy, is noted for its clearly defined spiral arms, which are prominently featured in this latest image. These arms consist of bright stellar populations and regions of active star formation, adding to the galaxy’s visual appeal.
The galaxy’s core, referred to as an active galactic nucleus (AGN), shines brilliantly due to a central supermassive black hole. This black hole, by consuming surrounding gas and dust, emits radiation that remarkably outshines the entire galaxy. ESA officials have pointed out that while visible wavelengths offer a captivating view, many of NGC 5643’s intriguing aspects remain hidden from the human eye. For instance, the core’s brightness is significantly due to the energy released as gas heats up in the accretion disc surrounding the black hole, emitting high levels of radiation, particularly in X-ray wavelengths.
In addition to the dazzling AGN, the galaxy hosts another captivating feature: NGC 5643 X-1. This object, located on the galaxy’s outskirts, is believed to be a smaller black hole, approximately 30 times the mass of the sun. It pulls material from a nearby star, developing a superheated disc that further contributes to the galaxy’s overall brightness and complexity. The presence of both the AGN and this smaller black hole highlights the dynamic nature of NGC 5643.
Past observations by the Hubble have also highlighted the galaxy’s stunning features. The recent face-on perspective integrates various wavelengths of light, including the characteristic red of gas heated by young stars, to reveal its intricate details. This combination of elements showcases the galaxy’s beauty and the ongoing cosmic processes that shape it.
The recent images of NGC 5643 captured by the Hubble Space Telescope offer a glimpse into the intricate processes and stunning beauty of this grand spiral galaxy. The presence of both an active galactic nucleus and a secondary black hole underscore the complexity and dynamic nature of galaxies like NGC 5643.
Source: Space
