NGC 3079 is a barred spiral galaxy located about 50 million light-years away in the constellation Ursa Major. This galaxy is particularly notable for its energetic central region, which hosts a powerful superbubble—an enormous, expanding shell of gas driven by intense stellar winds and supernova explosions.
Structure and Features
NGC 3079 has a striking, warped disk of gas and dust, suggesting past interactions with nearby galaxies. Its shape and activity classify it as a starburst galaxy, meaning it is undergoing a high rate of star formation. The central region is exceptionally bright in X-ray and radio wavelengths, hinting at the presence of a supermassive black hole.
One of its most intriguing features is the superbubble, extending 3,000 light-years above and below the galactic disk. Scientists believe this feature results from the combined energy of multiple supernovae or possibly outflows from the galaxy’s active nucleus.
Discovery and Significance
NGC 3079 was discovered by William Herschel in 1790. Astronomers study this galaxy to understand how intense star formation affects a galaxy’s evolution. The superbubble also provides insights into how energy and matter flow from galaxies into intergalactic space, influencing cosmic structures on larger scales.
Why It Matters
Studying NGC 3079 helps scientists learn how starbursts and black holes shape galaxies. The galaxy’s activity gives clues about how supernovae, stellar winds, and black hole jets interact with their surroundings, enriching the universe with heavy elements essential for future star and planet formation.
NGC 3079 continues to be a key target for telescopes like Hubble and Chandra, revealing more about the powerful processes shaping galaxies across the cosmos.
Capture Details:
Telescope: Celestron Nexstar 8se
Filter: Optolong L-Pro
Camera: ZWO ASI294 MC Pro
Mount: Juwei-17
Total Time: 129×120″ 4 hours 18 minutes
Capture Software: N.I.N.A.
Guiding: PHD2, ZWO asi120mm mini
Processed in: PixInsight
Additional details on Astrobin.com.