M88
M88 displays a set of tight spiral arms and dust lanes in each. A recent supernova (1991) in M88 helped better determine its distance from us. Stars exploding in other galaxies can be used as a "standard candle" since astronomers know their intrinsic brightness (how bright it would appear at a known distance). Then, by measuring the brightness of the supernova, they can estimate its distance by using the properties of light (things appear dimmer the further away they are). M88 is calculated to be 60 million light years away by this method.
This image was taken as part of Advanced Observing Program (AOP) program at Kitt Peak Visitor Center during 2014.
Credit:KPNO/NOIRLab/NSF/AURA/Jim Quinn/Adam Block
About the Image
| Id: | noao-m88quinn |
| Type: | Observation |
| Release date: | Feb. 20, 2014, 1:48 p.m. |
| Size: | 2184 x 1472 px |
About the Object
Wallpapers
Coordinates
| Position (RA): | 12 32 1.37 |
| Position (Dec): | 14° 23' 25.58" |
| Field of view: | 12.42 x 8.32 arcminutes |
| Orientation: | North is 179.2° right of vertical |
View in WorldWide Telescope:
Colors & filters
| Band | Wave-length | Tele-scope |
|---|---|---|
| Optical B | 438 nm | Visitor Center 0.5-meter Telescope Other CCD |
| Optical G | 475 nm | Visitor Center 0.5-meter Telescope Other CCD |
| Optical R | 625 nm | Visitor Center 0.5-meter Telescope Other CCD |
| Optical Broad Band | 555 nm | Visitor Center 0.5-meter Telescope Other CCD |