The Hubble Space Telescope has captured a stunning image of the spiral galaxy UGC 10043. This breathtaking portrait took more than two decades to create, as its data was gathered across 23 years. Located about 150 million light-years away in the constellation Serpens, the image was shared on December 12, 2024, and showcases the incredible capabilities of long-term observation.
Unlike most full-color images of space, which combine data from quick observations, this picture of UGC 10043 uses data from two observation sessions—one in 2000 and another in 2023. This 23-year gap shows the unique advantage of having a long-serving space telescope like Hubble. It allows astronomers to revisit objects and combine data for unmatched clarity.
Launched on April 24, 1990, aboard the space shuttle Discovery, the Hubble Space Telescope has been a reliable tool for studying deep space. Its long life has allowed it to gather incredible amounts of data and provide new insights into the universe.
Capturing spiral galaxies
According to the European Space Agency, spiral galaxies are among the most common types, making up about 60% of all galaxies in the universe. Typically, they are seen face-on, showing their vivid spiral arms. Another thing that makes this image special is that it shows UGC 10043 from a rare edge-on view, compressing its spiral structure into a slim line. This gives astronomers a unique chance to explore its three-dimensional structure.
From this angle, lanes of dust appear that would normally form spiral arms in a face-on view. These dark lanes block starlight and contain regions where new stars are forming. The bright central core contrasts beautifully with the dusty, dark areas, creating an image that’s as striking for viewers as it is informative for scientists.
At the center of the image is UGC 10043’s large, bright core. While all spiral galaxies have a core, this one is unusually prominent. Scientists believe this is due to a collision with a smaller galaxy. Such collisions can deliver dust and gas, fueling star formation. The slight warp in UGC 10043’s disk, bending up on one side and down on the other, also supports this idea.
This image highlights the value of Hubble’s long mission. By combining observations made more than two decades apart, astronomers have created a portrait that not only reveals the unique features of UGC 10043 but also expands our knowledge of how galaxies form and change. As Hubble continues to work alongside newer telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope, its ability to revisit and refine views of the universe ensures its lasting importance. For now, this image is a brilliant example of what patience, precision, and advanced technology can achieve.
[via Live Science]
