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A Twisted Galaxy: An Astronomy Perspective
Emil Andronic from Hemel Hempstead, U.K., has captured a stunning image of NGC 3718, a unique barred spiral galaxy that showcases an intriguing, twisted morphology. This distinct shape is believed to result from gravitational interactions with its neighboring counterpart, NGC 3729.
Located approximately 120 million light-years from Earth, NGC 3718 is recognized as the 214th entry in Halton Arp’s Atlas of Peculiar Galaxies, a catalog that highlights galaxies with unusual features. The captivating structure of NGC 3718 not only makes it a subject of wonder for amateur astronomers but also for researchers who study galactic dynamics.
In his imaging process, Andronic dedicated an impressive 37â…“ hours gathering LRGB (Luminance, Red, Green, and Blue) data using two 8-inch reflectors. This meticulous effort has resulted in a breathtaking representation of the galaxy, emphasizing its distinct characteristics and the cosmic environment in which it resides.
Galaxies like NGC 3718 serve as valuable laboratories for understanding the effects of cosmic interactions over time. Their formations and transformations can provide insights into the processes that govern galaxy evolution, making them focal points for ongoing astronomical research.
The study of peculiar galaxies not only illuminates the intricacies of these formations but also enriches our overall understanding of the universe’s structure and behavior.
Source
www.astronomy.com