NGC 5248

NGC 5248 is a spiral galaxy that is part of the Virgo Cluster; however on a star chart the galaxy is found to be within constellation boundaries of Bootes. Short exposures of this galaxy show the bright structures of the central regions. Many dust lanes, HII (red) regions, and blue stellar associations populate this busy area. Deeper exposures such as the above image begin to show the two tenuous and dim outer arms of the galaxy. This galaxy seems to be a mix between M81 with two distinct arms and M100 with detailed nucleus. NGC 5248 is estimated to be 50 million light years away.

This image was taken as part of Advanced Observing Program (AOP) program at Kitt Peak Visitor Center during 2014.