NGC 1309

Hubble Snaps Images of a Pinwheel-Shaped Galaxy

Recent observations of the galaxy taken in visible and infrared light come together in a colorful depiction of many of the galaxy's features. Bright blue areas of star formation pepper the spiral arms, while ruddy dust lanes follow the spiral structure into a yellowish central nucleus of older-population stars. The image is complemented by myriad far-off background galaxies.

NGC 1309 - click for 800×746 image

A very similar galaxy is actually known as the Pinwheel Galaxy (Messier 101, NGC 5457). More information: here.