Hubble Space Telescope Snaps Captures Archetypal Spiral Galaxy NGC 691: Details Inside

Hubble Space Telescope, which belongs to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the European Space Agency (ESA), is no stranger to spiral galaxies. Hubble has brought us some of the most beautiful images ever taken of our spiral neighbours — and the galaxy known as NGC 691 is no exception. Yes, you read it right. Hubble’s high-resolution Wide Field Camera 3 has taken a picture of an archetypal spiral galaxy named NGC 691.

In a statement, the official website of Hubble Space Telescope said, The subject of this image is known as NGC 691, and it can be found some 120 million light-years from Earth. This galaxy was one of thousands of objects discovered by astronomer William Herschel during his prolific decades-long career spent hunting for, characterising, and cataloguing a wide array of the galaxies and nebulae visible throughout the night sky — almost 200 years before Hubble was even launched.”  

“The intricate detail visible in this Picture of the Week would likely be extraordinary to Herschel. Hubble was able to capture an impressive level of structure within NGC 691’s layers of stars and spiralling arms,” it added.

Also Read: NASA Mathematician Katherine Johnson Dies At 101

Recently, Hubble team has won the 2020 Michael Collins Trophy. Through its 30 years of discoveries and awesome celestial images, the legendary Hubble Space Telescope has redefined the universe for new generations of astronomers and the public alike. In recognition of Hubble's scientific prowess and longevity, the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC has awarded its 2020 Collins Trophy for Current Achievement to the Hubble operations team.

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