NGC 864

NGC 864 is a barred spiral galaxy in the direction of Cetus. It is estimated to be around 69 million light years away. As a morphological feature, bars in the centers of galaxies indicate a dynamic movement of gas (and stars). While NGC 864 possesses a weak bar- the effects of the structure can be readily seen in the galaxy. The elongated and extremely bright nucleus delineate the bar. When displayed in a non-linear fashion the delicate dust lanes that run along the bar can be discerned. Galactic bars generally stir the interiors of galaxies with flows of gas into and out of the region. Due to their asymmetric concentration of mass, bars can also generate waves of star formation in the outer disk by the oscillatory compression of gas. In the case of NGC 864, the two major arms spring from the ends of the bar. These arms indicate a continual emergence of new star-formation that continues "downstream." A few other barred spirals include: NGC 7479, NGC 255, NGC 266, NGC 1300, M58, NGC 5964, NGC 5921, and many others.

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