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> Spiral galaxy NGC 6744 in Pavo

Spiral galaxy NGC 6744 in Pavo

author: R.Gendler/Novapix

reference: a-gax67-44003

Image Size 300 DPI: 33 * 22 cm

NGC 6744 is a majestic spiral galaxy in the southern constellation of Pavo. It has great similarities to the Milky Way galaxy in both form and structure. It lies at a distance of approximately 25 million Light Years. At its northern tip NGC 6744 is interacting with a dwarf companion galaxy much in the same way the Milky Way interacts with the Large Magellanic Cloud. The northernmost spiral arm is most likely being stretched and its stars and gas stripped due to tidal pull from the dwarf companion. Likewise the stars of the companion will likely be engulfed and the companion will ultimately merge with NGC 6744 at a far off future time. Image taken with 14.5" RCOS telescope, 12 Hours of exposure.

Keywords for this photo:

2008 - ASTRONOMY - BARRED SPIRAL GALAXY - GALAXY - INTERACTING - NGC 6744 - PAVO - SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE - SPIRAL GALAXY - STAR - STAR FORMATION -