NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope has taken an amazing picture of a distant galaxy called JO206, also known as the “jellyfish” galaxy. This remarkable galaxy is located more than 700 million light-years away in the constellation Aquarius. The snapshot shared on NASA’s ‘nasahubble’ Instagram page reveals JW209 as a graceful jellyfish swimming through the dark emptiness of space. In the caption, NASA explains the spiral structure of JW209. The galaxy has a bright inner disk adorned with spots of bluish and reddish star formation scattered throughout its arms. Surrounding the galaxy is an outer disk of pale, faint dust that adds to its beauty. However, what truly mesmerizes the viewer is the sight of several arms being pulled away from the disk, stretching into long, dim trails that crisscross the image. The scene is further enhanced by three bright stars shining against the dark background.
Jellyfish galaxies get their name because they have tendrils of bright star formation that resemble the tentacles of an aquatic animal.
These tendrils form as a result of interactions with the intra-cluster medium, which is the gas and dust found between galaxies. These interactions pull gas towards the galaxy, creating unique conditions for star formation. Interestingly, the Hubble Space Telescope’s observations show that there are no major differences in star formation between the galaxy’s bright inner disk and its tentacles.
This image of the jellyfish galaxy is not only stunning but also provides valuable insights into the way galaxies evolve and interact with their surroundings in the vastness of space. It serves as a reminder of the incredible beauty and wonders that exist beyond our own planet.
