This deep image shows the intriguing Topsy-Turvy Galaxy (NGC 1313), a barred spiral galaxy located in the constellation Reticulum, approximately 14 million light-years away. The image consists of over 30 hours of data, including several hours of narrowband H-Alpha and OIII components to bring out the colourful arm structures.
The galaxy's apt nickname refers to its unusual chaotic appearance, characterized by asymmetrical spiral arms and tidal disruption. NGC 1313 is a relatively small galaxy compared to the Milky Way, with a diameter of about 50,000 light-years, and it appears somewhat similar to the Milky Way's smaller companions, the Magellanic Clouds.
One of the most interesting features of NGC 1313 is its high rate of star formation, particularly in regions where the spiral arms intersect the central bar. These areas, known as star-forming regions or HII regions, are characterized by intense radiation from young, massive stars. The irregular structure and high rate of star formation suggests past interactions or mergers with other galaxies, contributing to its dynamic appearance. But paradoxically NGC 1313 appears to be an isolated galaxy without any nearby neighbours or evidence of past mergers. The origin of its chaotic appearance therefore remains unclear.
Image details:
Date: Jan-Feb 2024
Exposure: L R G B Ha OIII: 945:180:175:175:135:210 mins, total 30 hours 20 mins @ -25C
Telescope: Homebuilt 12.5" f/4 Serrurier Truss Newtonian
Camera: QSI 683wsg with Lodestar guider
Filters: Astrodon LRGB E-Series Gen 2, Astrodon 3nm Ha & OIII
Taken from my observatory in Auckland, New Zealand
