A new image shows a breathtaking universe.
Scientists can gain a better understanding of star formation and evolution by studying the light from the galaxy across multiple wavelengths.
The new capture shows the object in question across multiple spectrums of light, thanks to the Multi-Unit Spectroscopic Explorer (MUSE) on the Very Large Telescope.
A subset of the universe that is considered spectacular, like a peacock, can be found in the spiral galaxy, called NGC 4254.
A spiral galaxy with prominent, well-formed and visible spiral arms is almost the ideal of what a spiral galaxy should look like.
Hubble's visible light image of NCG.
Through the eyes of MUSE, NGC 4254 shows the gas ionized by newborn stars. The activity of the galaxy is three times higher than the average for its type.
Astronomers think it could be due to an interaction with another galaxy millions of years ago. There is a clue to support this because one of the spiral arms seems to be more extended than the other.
The ancient interaction would have caused enough compression in the gas that it would cause heightened star formation activity.
There is a new MUSE image. (ESO/PHANGS)
It's close to the Milky Way and the angle at which we can see it make it an excellent example for studying star formation processes.
The MUSE image was taken as part of the PHANGS project, which takes high-resolution, multi-wavelength images of nearby galaxies in order to study the entire cycle of how stars are born.
There are wallpaper-sized versions of the new image on the website.
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