Explanation : NGC 253 is a normal spiral galaxy seen here almost sideways. It is the largest member of the Sculptor Group of Galaxies , the nearest group to our own Local Group of Galaxies . NGC 253 appears visually as one of the brightest spirals on the sky, and is easily visible in southern hemisphere with a good pair of binoculars. The type “Sc” galaxy is about 10 million light years distant. NGC 253 is considered a “starburst” galaxy because of high star formation rates and dense dust clouds in its nucleus . The energetic nuclear region is seen to glow in X-ray and gamma-ray light.
Media Credits & Attribution
Spiral Galaxy NGC 253 Almost Sideways Credit: Anglo-Australian Telescope photograph by David Malin Copyright: Anglo-Australian Telescope Board