NGC 253

NGC 253 is a nearby galaxy at a distance of approximately 8 million light years away. The galaxy is some 60,000 light years in diameter- and its full disk extends beyond the field of view shown here. However, at this resolution (click on image) you can make out many features of this galaxy including: clumpy and dark clouds of gas, bright blue and white star clouds, and pink HII (clouds of molecular hydrogen) regions which are tremendous stellar nurseries. Also note the small galaxy just "above" the disk at the top left of the image.

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