NGC 3319

At a distance of 32 million light years, NGC 3319 is a relatively nearby galaxy. Much of the activity in this galaxy is resigned to the central bar- the rest of the galaxy is seemingly quiet (and *very* dim). A few star forming regions punctuate the ends of the bar and the bends in the spiral arms. Astronomers have wondered why this particular barred-spiral seems to lack much gas (and thereby much star formation). The distribution of hydrogen gas in this galaxy is also significantly asymmetric. The reason for this is unknown as normally interaction with another galaxy would cause this effect; but there are no perturbers in the vicinity.

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