Hubble view of galaxy NGC 4710 with x-shaped bulge

This image from the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope shows edge-on galaxy NGC 4710. When staring directly at the centre of the galaxy, one can detect a faint, ethereal "X"-shaped structure. Such a feature, which astronomers call a "boxy" or "peanut-shaped" bulge, is due to the vertical motions of the stars in the galaxy's bar and is only evident when the galaxy is seen edge-on. This curious feature is also seen in the Milky Way.

Credit:

NASA & ESA

About the Image

Id:eso1339d
Type:Observation
Release date:12 September 2013, 12:00
Related releases:eso1339
Size:3381 x 1095 px

About the Object

Name:NGC 4710
Type:Local Universe : Galaxy
Constellation:Coma Berenices
Category:Galaxies

Image Formats

Large JPEG
675.0 KB
Screensize JPEG
62.7 KB

Zoomable


Wallpapers

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1600x1200
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1920x1200
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2048x1536
490.5 KB

Coordinates

Position (RA):12 49 38.77
Position (Dec):15° 10' 1.65"
Field of view:2.85 x 0.92 arcminutes
Orientation:North is 70.9° left of vertical

Colours & filters

BandWavelengthTelescope
Optical
B
475 nmHubble Space Telescope
ACS
Optical
Pseudogreen (B+I)
Hubble Space Telescope
ACS
Infrared
I
814 nmHubble Space Telescope
ACS